Surgical instrument with axially movable closure member

ABSTRACT

A surgical instrument that includes a first jaw and a second jaw that is coupled to the first jaw for selective pivotal travel relative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closed position. A closure member is configured to apply closure motions to the second jaw as the closure member is axially movable in a distal direction from a starting position corresponding to the fully open position of the second jaw to an ending position corresponding to the fully closed position of the second jaw. The closure member is configured to move distally from the starting position through an initial predetermined axial closure distance before applying the closure motion to the second jaw.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in variousarrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staplecartridges for use therewith that are designed to staple and cut tissue.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various features of the embodiments described herein, together withadvantages thereof, may be understood in accordance with the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings asfollows:

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of a surgical system comprising ahandle assembly and multiple interchangeable surgical tool assembliesthat may be used therewith;

FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of portions of the handle assemblyand one of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies depicted in FIG.1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of one of the interchangeable surgical toolassemblies depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is an exploded assembly view of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is another exploded assembly view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3 and 4;

FIG. 6 is another exploded assembly view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-5;

FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of a proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-6;

FIG. 8 is another exploded assembly view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-7;

FIG. 9 is another exploded assembly view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-8;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-9;

FIG. 11 is another perspective view of the proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-10;

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the proximal portion ofthe interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-11;

FIG. 13 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the proximalportion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-12;

FIG. 14 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the proximalportion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-13;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional perspective view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 3-14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of another one of the interchangeablesurgical tool assemblies depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 17 is an exploded assembly view of a proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is another exploded assembly view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 16 and 17;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another one of the interchangeablesurgical tool assemblies depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 20 is an exploded assembly view of a proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is another exploded assembly view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 19 and 20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another one of the interchangeablesurgical tool assemblies depicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 23 is an exploded assembly view of a proximal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is another exploded assembly view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 22 and 23;

FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 26 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 16 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 28 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 19 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 22 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 32 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil thereofin a fully open position;

FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 16 with the anvil thereofin a fully open position;

FIG. 35 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 19 with the anvil thereofin a fully open position;

FIG. 36 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 22 with the anvil thereofin a fully open position;

FIG. 37 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of anotherinterchangeable surgical tool assembly with the anvil thereof shown inone open position in solid lines and another open position in phantomlines;

FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of anotherinterchangeable surgical tool assembly with the anvil thereof in an openposition;

FIG. 39 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil thereofin a fully open position;

FIG. 40 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 39 and 40 with the anvilthereof in a fully closed position;

FIG. 42 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 16 with the anvil thereof in a fully open position;

FIG. 43 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 42 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 44 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 19 with the anvil thereof in a fully open position;

FIG. 45 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 44 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 46 is an enlarged side elevational view of the anvil mountingportion and elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly of FIG. 22 with the anvil thereof in a fully open position;

FIG. 47 is a side elevational view of a distal portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 46 with the anvil thereofin a fully closed position;

FIG. 48 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portionand elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly ofFIG. 3 with the anvil in a fully open position;

FIG. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portionand elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly ofFIG. 16 with the anvil in a fully open position;

FIG. 50 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portionand elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly ofFIG. 19 with the anvil in a fully open position;

FIG. 51 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil mounting portionand elongate channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly ofFIG. 22 with the anvil in a fully open position;

FIG. 52 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvil of thesurgical end effector thereof in a fully open position;

FIG. 53 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 52 with the anvil in afully closed position;

FIG. 54 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 16 wherein the anvil isin a fully open position;

FIG. 55 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 19 wherein the anvil isin a fully open position;

FIG. 56 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 22 wherein the anvil isin a fully open position;

FIG. 57 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 wherein the firingmember thereof is in a starting position;

FIG. 58 is a side elevational view of the surgical end effector of FIG.57 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

FIG. 59 is another partial cross-sectional view of the portion of thesurgical end effector of FIGS. 57 and 58 wherein the firing member is ininitial engagement with the anvil thereof;

FIG. 60 is another partial cross-sectional view of the surgical endeffector of FIGS. 57 and 58 after the firing member thereof has beendistally advanced during the firing process;

FIG. 60A is a perspective view of a portion of a firing member assemblyof surgical stapling instrument that includes a first firing memberelement and a second firing member element that is movable relative tothe first firing member element between a locked and an unlockedposition;

FIG. 60B is another perspective view of the firing member assembly ofFIG. 60A with the second firing member element in the locked position;

FIG. 60C is a cross-sectional elevational view of the surgical staplinginstrument of FIG. 60A with the firing member assembly in a startingposition;

FIG. 60D is another cross-sectional view of the surgical staplinginstrument of FIG. 60C illustrated in a locked out configuration;

FIG. 60E is a side view of a firing member assembly with the secondfiring member element in a lockout orientation;

FIG. 60F is another side view of the firing member assembly of FIG. 60Ewith the second firing member element illustrated in an unlocked orfiring orientation;

FIG. 60G is another partial perspective view of the surgical staplinginstrument of FIG. 60A illustrated in an unlocked configuration;

FIG. 60H is a cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling instrumentof FIG. 60A with an unfired surgical fastener cartridge operablysupported in an elongate channel thereof and with the firing memberassembly illustrated in a starting position;

FIG. 60I is another cross-sectional view of the surgical staplinginstrument of FIG. 60H with the firing member assembly illustrated in apartially-fired configuration;

FIG. 61 is another side elevational view of the surgical end effector ofFIGS. 57-60 with the anvil in an over closed position;

FIG. 62 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical end effectorof the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 in a fully openposition with the distal closure tube segment shown in phantom toillustrate the anvil retaining member;

FIG. 63 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical endeffector of FIG. 62 with the anvil in a fully closed position;

FIG. 64 is a partial perspective view of a distal closure tube segmentof the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 3 with the anvilin a fully closed position;

FIG. 65 is a top plan view of the distal closure tube segment and anvilof FIG. 64;

FIG. 66 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64 and 65 illustrating the position of aproximal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in a fully closedposition;

FIG. 67 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theanvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-66 illustrating theposition of the proximal jaw opening feature when the anvil is betweenthe fully open and fully closed positions;

FIG. 68 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theanvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-67 illustrating theposition of the proximal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in thefully open position;

FIG. 69 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-68 illustrating the position of adistal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in a fully closed position;

FIG. 70 is a partial cross-sectional view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-69 illustrating the position of thedistal jaw opening feature when the anvil is between the fully open andfully closed positions;

FIG. 71 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of theanvil and distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-70 illustrating theposition of the distal jaw opening feature when the anvil is in thefully open position;

FIG. 72 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-71 with the anvil in a fully closedposition;

FIG. 73 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-72 with the anvil in a fully closedposition;

FIG. 74 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-73 with the anvil in a partially openposition;

FIG. 75 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-74 with the anvil in a partially openposition;

FIG. 76 is a partial left side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-75 with the anvil in a fully openposition;

FIG. 77 is a partial right side perspective view of the anvil and distalclosure tube segment of FIGS. 64-76 with the anvil in a fully openposition; and

FIG. 78 is a graphical comparison between the jaw aperture angle andretraction of the distal closure tube segment of FIGS. 64-77.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding partsthroughout the several views. The exemplifications set out hereinillustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and suchexemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of theinvention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications that were filed on even date herewith and which are eachherein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN OFFSET ARTICULATION JOINT; Attorney        Docket No. END8207USNP/170098;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO; Attorney        Docket No. END8210USNP/170099;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO; Attorney        Docket No. END8204USNP/170100;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING FIRING MEMBER SUPPORTS; Attorney Docket        No. END8218USNP/170101;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM LOCKABLE TO A        FRAME; Attorney Docket No. END8217USNP/070102;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM LOCKABLE BY A        CLOSURE SYSTEM; Attorney Docket No. END8211USNP/170103;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A HOUSING ARRANGEMENT;        Attorney Docket No. END8215USNP/170107;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING SELECTIVELY ACTUATABLE ROTATABLE COUPLERS;        Attorney Docket No. END8201USNP/170104;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING SHORTENED STAPLE CARTRIDGE        NOSES; Attorney Docket No. END8206USNP/170105;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A CLOSURE TUBE PROFILE;        Attorney Docket No. END8212USNP/170106;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled METHOD FOR        ARTICULATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT; Attorney Docket No.        END8200USNP/170089M;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR WITH AXIALLY        SHORTENED ARTICULATION JOINT CONFIGURATIONS; Attorney Docket No.        END8214USNP/170090;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH OPEN AND CLOSABLE JAWS AND AXIALLY MOVABLE        FIRING MEMBER THAT IS INITIALLY PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE        JAWS PRIOR TO FIRING; Attorney Docket No. END8202USNP/170091;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS CONSTRAINED TO PIVOT ABOUT AN AXIS UPON        CONTACT WITH A CLOSURE MEMBER THAT IS PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY        TO THE PIVOT AXIS; Attorney Docket No. END8213USNP/170092;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL END        EFFECTORS WITH IMPROVED JAW APERTURE ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney        Docket No. END8203USNP/170093;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        CUTTING AND FASTENING DEVICES WITH PIVOTABLE ANVIL WITH A TISSUE        LOCATING ARRANGEMENT IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO AN ANVIL PIVOT;        Attorney Docket No. END8205USNP/170094;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled JAW RETAINER        ARRANGEMENT FOR RETAINING A PIVOTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT JAW IN        PIVOTABLE RETAINING ENGAGEMENT WITH A SECOND SURGICAL INSTRUMENT        JAW; Attorney Docket No. END8216USNP/170095;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES; Attorney Docket        No. END8208USNP/170096;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENT; Attorney Docket No.        END8233USNP/170084;    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled STAPLE        FORMING ANVIL; Attorney Docket No. END8236USDP/170109D;    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled        SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT; Attorney Docket No.        END8239USDP/170108D; and    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled        SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE; Attorney Docket No.        END8240USDP/170110D.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications that were filed on Jun. 27, 2017 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL ANVIL        MANUFACTURING METHODS; Attorney Docket No. END8165USNP/170079M;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL ANVIL        ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No. END8168USNP/170080;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL ANVIL        ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No. END8170USNP/170081;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL ANVIL        ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No. END8164USNP/170082;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL        FIRING MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No.        END8169USNP/170083;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled STAPLE FORMING        POCKET ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No. END8167USNP/170085;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled STAPLE FORMING        POCKET ARRANGEMENTS; Attorney Docket No. END8232USNP/170086;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL END        EFFECTORS AND ANVILS; Attorney Docket No. END8166USNP/170087;        and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled ARTICULATION        SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS; Attorney Docket No.        END8171USNP/170088.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications that were filed on Dec. 21, 2016 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,185, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES THEREOF;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,230, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,221, entitled LOCKOUT        ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,209, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,198, entitled LOCKOUT        ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL        ASSEMBLIES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,240, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,939, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES        THEREIN;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,941, entitled SURGICAL        TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIFTING BETWEEN        CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND        ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,943, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,950, entitled SURGICAL        TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,945, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES        THEREIN;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,946, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,951, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASING A JAW        OPENING DISTANCE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,953, entitled METHODS OF        STAPLING TISSUE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,954, entitled FIRING        MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FOR SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,955, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOP ARRANGEMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,948, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,956, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,958, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING        SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,947, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES        THEREIN;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,896, entitled METHOD FOR        RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,898, entitled STAPLE        FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT TYPES OF        STAPLES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,899, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,901, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWS        DEFINED THEREIN;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,902, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,904, entitled STAPLE        FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND/OR SPENT        CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,905, entitled FIRING        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,907, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUT AND A        FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,908, entitled FIRING        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,909, entitled FIRING        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,920, entitled STAPLE        FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,913, entitled ANVIL        ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,914, entitled METHOD OF        DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLE CARTRIDGES        WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,893, entitled        BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE FORMING POCKET PAIRS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,929, entitled CLOSURE        MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS        WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND        FIRING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,927, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,917, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,900, entitled STAPLE        FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND        POCKET SIDEWALLS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,931, entitled        NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR        SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,915, entitled FIRING        MEMBER PIN ANGLE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,897, entitled STAPLE        FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMING SURFACE        GROOVES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,922, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,924, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,912, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT A FIXED AXIS AND        INCLUDE SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,910, entitled ANVIL        HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,906, entitled FIRING        MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,188, entitled STEPPED        STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,192, entitled STEPPED        STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAP SETTING FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,206, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,226, entitled DURABILITY        FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIES OF SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,222, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE OPENING        FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/386,236, entitled CONNECTION        PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING        INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,887, entitled METHOD FOR        ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND,        ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,889, entitled SHAFT        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR        USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,890, entitled SHAFT        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE AND RETRACTABLE        SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,891, entitled SHAFT        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THE OUTPUT OF A        ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,892, entitled SURGICAL        SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO AN ARTICULATION        STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,894, entitled SHAFT        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,895, entitled SHAFT        ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATION LOCKOUTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,916, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,918, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,919, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,921, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLE/FASTENER CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBER CONFIGURED        TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,923, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,925, entitled JAW        ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF A        FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED        CARTRIDGE IS INSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,926, entitled AXIALLY        MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS        TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,928, entitled PROTECTIVE        COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN A MOVABLE JAW        AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,930, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENING FEATURES FOR        OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,932, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFT        ARRANGEMENT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,933, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLE        LINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,934, entitled        ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR IN AN        ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE        SYSTEM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,935, entitled LATERALLY        ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END        EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED        CONFIGURATION; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,936, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKE        AMPLIFICATION FEATURES.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications that were filed on Jun. 24, 2016 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/191,775, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/191,807, entitled STAPLING        SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/191,834, entitled STAMPED        STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/191,788, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/191,818, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS.

Applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patentapplications that were filed on Jun. 24, 2016 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

-   -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/569,218, entitled        SURGICAL FASTENER;    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/569,227, entitled        SURGICAL FASTENER;    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/569,259, entitled        SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE; and    -   U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/569,264, entitled        SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Apr. 1, 2016 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,325, entitled METHOD FOR        OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,321, entitled MODULAR        SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,326, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE        DISPLAY FIELD;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,263, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIP PORTION;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,262, entitled ROTARY        POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT        SYSTEM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,277, entitled SURGICAL        CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVIL CONCENTRIC DRIVE        MEMBER;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,296, entitled        INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL END        EFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,258, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,278, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE CUTTING OF        TISSUE;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,284, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,295, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSION LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,300, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,196, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,203, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,210, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,324, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,335, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,339, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,253, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OF STAPLES        HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,304, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,331, entitled ANVIL        MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,336, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,312, entitled CIRCULAR        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUE SUPPORT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,309, entitled CIRCULAR        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/089,349, entitled CIRCULAR        STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL.

Applicant of the present application also owns the U.S. patentapplications identified below which were filed on Dec. 31, 2015 whichare each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/984,488, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/984,525, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/984,552, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUITS.

Applicant of the present application also owns the U.S. patentapplications identified below which were filed on Feb. 9, 2016 which areeach herein incorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,220, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END        EFFECTOR;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,228, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY        CONSTRAINT;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,206, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE        RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,215, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,227, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATION LINK        ARRANGEMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,235, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLE DRIVEN        ARTICULATION SYSTEMS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,230, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAM        ARRANGEMENTS; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS.

Applicant of the present application also owns the U.S. patentapplications identified below which were filed on Feb. 12, 2016 whichare each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/043,254, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/043,259, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/043,275, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/043,289, entitled MECHANISMS        FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Jun. 18, 2015 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,925, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0367256;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,941, entitled SURGICAL        END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSING FEATURES, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0367248;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,914, entitled MOVABLE        FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0367255;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,900, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAM        STRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION        SUPPORT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0367254;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,885, entitled DUAL        ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE        SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication        No. 2016/0367246; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/742,876, entitled PUSH/PULL        ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0367245.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Mar. 6, 2015 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,746, entitled POWERED        SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0256184;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,795, entitled MULTIPLE        LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWERED SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/02561185;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,832, entitled ADAPTIVE        TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURE RATES FOR        MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication        No. 2016/0256154;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,935, entitled OVERLAID        MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TO MEASURE        TISSUE COMPRESSION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0256071;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,831, entitled MONITORING        SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTOR FOR POWERED        SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication        No. 2016/0256153;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,859, entitled TIME        DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINE STABILITY,        CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0256187;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,817, entitled        INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256186;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,844, entitled CONTROL        TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULAR SHAFT WITH        SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0256155;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,837, entitled SMART        SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0256163;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,765, entitled SYSTEM FOR        DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGE INTO A        SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0256160;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,799, entitled SIGNAL AND        POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON A ROTATABLE SHAFT, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256162; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/640,780, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256161.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Feb. 27, 2015, and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,576, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249919;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,546, entitled SURGICAL        APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER        OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE        BAND, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249915;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,560, entitled SURGICAL        CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE        BATTERIES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0249910;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,566, entitled CHARGING        SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A        BATTERY, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0249918;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,555, entitled SYSTEM FOR        MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE SERVICED,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249916;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,542, entitled REINFORCED        BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0249908;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,548, entitled POWER        ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0249909;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,526, entitled ADAPTABLE        SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0249945;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,541, entitled MODULAR        STAPLING ASSEMBLY, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0249927; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/633,562, entitled SURGICAL        APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249917.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Dec. 18, 2014 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,478, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR AND        MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174977;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,483, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0174969;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,139, entitled DRIVE        ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174978;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,148, entitled LOCKING        ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE        SURGICAL END EFFECTORS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication        No. 2016/0174976;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,130, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLE ABOUT A        DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174972;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,143, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0174983;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,117, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING        BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0174975;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/575,154, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING        BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2016/0174973;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,493, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174970; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/574,500, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174971.

Applicant of the present application owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Mar. 1, 2013 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,295, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR        SIGNAL COMMUNICATION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication        No. 2014/0246471;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,323, entitled ROTARY        POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246472;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,338, entitled THUMBWREEL        SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2014/0249557;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,499, entitled        ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT,        now U.S. Pat. No. 9,358,003;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,460, entitled MULTIPLE        PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now        U.S. Pat. No. 9,554,794;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,358, entitled JOYSTICK        SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No.        9,326,767;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,481, entitled SENSOR        STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR, now        U.S. Pat. No. 9,468,438;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,518, entitled CONTROL        METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLE IMPLEMENT        PORTIONS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2014/0246475;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,375, entitled ROTARY        POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OF FREEDOM,        now U.S. Pat. No. 9,398,911; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,536, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,307,986.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Mar. 14, 2013 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,097, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263542;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,193, entitled CONTROL        ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now        U.S. Pat. No. 9,332,987;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,053, entitled        INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2014/0263564;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION        LOCK, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,210, entitled SENSOR        ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2014/0263538;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,148, entitled        MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2014/0263554;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,066, entitled DRIVE        SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,        now U.S. Pat. No. 9,629,623;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,117, entitled        ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL        INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,351,726;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,130, entitled DRIVE        TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now        U.S. Pat. No. 9,351,727; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,159, entitled METHOD AND        SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2014/0277017.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplication that was filed on Mar. 7, 2014 and is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/200,111, entitled CONTROL        SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,629,629.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Mar. 26, 2014 and are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,106, entitled POWER        MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272582;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,099, entitled        STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2015/0272581;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,094, entitled        VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272580;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,117, entitled POWER        MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE        UP CONTROL, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2015/0272574;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,075, entitled MODULAR        POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272579;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,093, entitled FEEDBACK        ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272569;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,116, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2015/0272571;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,071, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272578;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,097, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2015/0272570;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,126, entitled INTERFACE        SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2015/0272572;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,133, entitled MODULAR        SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2015/0272557;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,081, entitled SYSTEMS        AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2015/0277471;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,076, entitled POWER        MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE        PROTECTION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2015/0280424;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,111, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2015/0272583; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,125, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2015/0280384.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Sep. 5, 2014 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,103, entitled CIRCUITRY        AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0066912;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,119, entitled ADJUNCT        WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066914;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/478,908, entitled MONITORING        DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066910;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/478,895, entitled MULTIPLE        SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR        INTERPRETATION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2016/0066909;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,110, entitled POLARITY        OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0066915;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,098, entitled SMART        CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0066911;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,115, entitled MULTIPLE        MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0066916; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,108, entitled LOCAL        DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2016/0066913.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Apr. 9, 2014 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,590, entitled MOTOR        DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305987;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,581, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE        OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT, now U.S. Pat. No.        9,649,110;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,595, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE        OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent        Application Publication No. 2014/0305988;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,588, entitled POWERED        LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2014/0309666;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,591, entitled        TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S.        Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305991;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,584, entitled MODULAR        MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR        ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS,        now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305994;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,587, entitled POWERED        SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENER, now U.S. Patent Application        Publication No. 2014/0309665;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,586, entitled DRIVE        SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now        U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305990; and    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,607, entitled MODULAR        MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION        ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.        2014/0305992.

Applicant of the present application also owns the following patentapplications that were filed on Apr. 16, 2013 and which are each hereinincorporated by reference in their respective entirety:

-   -   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,365,        entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED        BY A SINGLE MOTOR;    -   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,376,        entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER;    -   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,382,        entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP;    -   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,385,        entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION        MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL; and    -   U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,372,        entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED        BY A SINGLE MOTOR.

Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thoroughunderstanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and useof the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated inthe accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, andelements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure theembodiments described in the specification. The reader will understandthat the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limitingexamples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structuraland functional details disclosed herein may be representative andillustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made withoutdeparting from the scope of the claims.

The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and“comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and“having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and“including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains”and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgicalsystem, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or“contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements,but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements.Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,”“has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those oneor more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one ormore features.

The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to aclinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument.The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician andthe term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician.It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity,spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may beused herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instrumentsare used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are notintended to be limiting and/or absolute.

Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performinglaparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, thereader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devicesdisclosed herein can be used in numerous surgical procedures andapplications including, for example, in connection with open surgicalprocedures. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, the readerwill further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed hereincan be inserted into a body in any way, such as through a naturalorifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in tissue, etc. Theworking portions or end effector portions of the instruments can beinserted directly into a patient's body or can be inserted through anaccess device that has a working channel through which the end effectorand elongate shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

A surgical stapling system can comprise a shaft and an end effectorextending from the shaft. The end effector comprises a first jaw and asecond jaw. The first jaw comprises a staple cartridge. The staplecartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however,other embodiments are envisioned in which a staple cartridge is notremovable from, or at least readily replaceable from, the first jaw. Thesecond jaw comprises an anvil configured to deform staples ejected fromthe staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the firstjaw about a closure axis; however, other embodiments are envisioned inwhich the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. Thesurgical stapling system further comprises an articulation jointconfigured to permit the end effector to be rotated, or articulated,relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about anarticulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Otherembodiments are envisioned which do not include an articulation joint.

The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge bodyincludes a proximal end, a distal end, and a deck extending between theproximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge ispositioned on a first side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil ispositioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil is moved toward thestaple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the deck.Thereafter, staples removably stored in the cartridge body can bedeployed into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavitiesdefined therein wherein staples are removably stored in the staplecavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows.Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of alongitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on asecond side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staplecavities and staples may be possible.

The staples are supported by staple drivers in the cartridge body. Thedrivers are movable between a first, or unfired position, and a second,or fired, position to eject the staples from the staple cavities. Thedrivers are retained in the cartridge body by a retainer which extendsaround the bottom of the cartridge body and includes resilient membersconfigured to grip the cartridge body and hold the retainer to thecartridge body. The drivers are movable between their unfired positionsand their fired positions by a sled. The sled is movable between aproximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal positionadjacent the distal end. The sled comprises a plurality of rampedsurfaces configured to slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, andthe staples supported thereon, toward the anvil.

Further to the above, the sled is moved distally by a firing member. Thefiring member is configured to contact the sled and push the sled towardthe distal end. The longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body isconfigured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slotconfigured to receive the firing member. The firing member furthercomprises a first cam which engages the first jaw and a second cam whichengages the second jaw. As the firing member is advanced distally, thefirst cam and the second cam can control the distance, or tissue gap,between the deck of the staple cartridge and the anvil. The firingmember also comprises a knife configured to incise the tissue capturedintermediate the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable for theknife to be positioned at least partially proximal to the rampedsurfaces such that the staples are ejected ahead of the knife.

FIG. 1 depicts a motor-driven surgical system 10 that may be used toperform a variety of different surgical procedures. As can be seen inthat Figure, one example of the surgical system 10 includes fourinterchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 thatare each adapted for interchangeable use with a handle assembly 500.Each interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000may be designed for use in connection with the performance of one ormore specific surgical procedures. In another surgical systemembodiment, one or more of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 may also be effectively employed with a tooldrive assembly of a robotically controlled or automated surgical system.For example, the surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may beemployed with various robotic systems, instruments, components andmethods such as, but not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.9,072,535, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLEDEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety.

FIG. 2 illustrates attachment of an interchangeable surgical toolassembly 1000 to the handle assembly 500. It will be understood that anyof the other interchangeable tool assemblies 3000, 5000, and 7000 may becoupled to the handle assembly 500 in a similar manner. The attachmentarrangement and process depicted in FIG. 2 may also be employed inconnection with attachment of any of the interchangeable surgical toolassemblies 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 to a tool drive portion or tooldrive housing of a robotic system. The handle assembly 500 may comprisea handle housing 502 that includes a pistol grip portion 504 that can begripped and manipulated by the clinician. As will be briefly discussedbelow, the handle assembly 500 operably supports a plurality of drivesystems 510, 530 that are configured to generate and apply variouscontrol motions to corresponding portions of the interchangeablesurgical tool assembly 1000, 3000, 5000 and/or 7000 that is operablyattached thereto.

As can be seen in FIG. 2, the handle assembly 500 may further include ahandle frame 506 that operably supports the plurality of drive systems.For example, the handle frame 506 can operably support a “first” orclosure drive system, generally designated as 510, which may be employedto apply closing and opening motions to the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 that is operably attached orcoupled to the handle assembly 500. In at least one form, the closuredrive system 510 may include an actuator in the form of a closuretrigger 512 that is pivotally supported by the handle frame 506. Sucharrangement enables the closure trigger 512 to be manipulated by aclinician such that when the clinician grips the pistol grip portion 504of the handle assembly 500, the closure trigger 512 may be easilypivoted from a starting or “unactuated” position to an “actuated”position and more particularly to a fully compressed or fully actuatedposition. In various forms, the closure drive system 510 furtherincludes a closure linkage assembly 514 that is pivotally coupled to theclosure trigger 512 or otherwise operably interfaces therewith. As willbe discussed in further detail below, in the illustrated example, theclosure linkage assembly 514 includes a transverse attachment pin 516that facilitates attachment to a corresponding drive system on thesurgical tool assembly. In use, to actuate the closure drive system 510,the clinician depresses the closure trigger 512 towards the pistol gripportion 504. As described in further detail in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/226,142, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSORSYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, whichis hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, when theclinician fully depresses the closure trigger 512 to attain the fullclosure stroke, the closure drive system 510 is configured to lock theclosure trigger 512 into the fully depressed or fully actuated position.When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 512 to permitit to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician simplyactivates a closure release button assembly 518 which enables theclosure trigger to return to unactuated position. The closure releasebutton assembly 518 may also be configured to interact with varioussensors that communicate with a microprocessor 560 in the handleassembly 500 for tracking the position of the closure trigger 512.Further details concerning the configuration and operation of theclosure release button assembly 518 may be found in U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2015/0272575.

In at least one form, the handle assembly 500 and the handle frame 506may operably support another drive system referred to herein as a firingdrive system 530 that is configured to apply firing motions tocorresponding portions of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblythat is attached thereto. As was described in detail in U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2015/0272575, the firing drive system 530may employ an electric motor 505 that is located in the pistol gripportion 504 of the handle assembly 500. In various forms, the motor 505may be a DC brushed driving motor having a maximum rotation of,approximately, 25,000 RPM, for example. In other arrangements, the motor505 may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronousmotor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor505 may be powered by a power source 522 that in one form may comprise aremovable power pack. The power pack may support a plurality of LithiumIon (“LI”) or other suitable batteries therein. A number of batteriesconnected in series may be used as the power source 522 for the surgicalsystem 10. In addition, the power source 522 may be replaceable and/orrechargeable.

The electric motor 505 is configured to axially drive a longitudinallymovable drive member (not shown) in a distal and proximal directionsdepending upon the polarity of the motor. For example, when the motor isdriven in one rotary direction, the longitudinally movable drive memberwill be axially driven in a distal direction “DD”. When the motor 505 isdriven in the opposite rotary direction, the longitudinally movabledrive member will be axially driven in a proximal direction “PD”. Thehandle assembly 500 can include a switch 513 which can be configured toreverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 505 by the powersource 522 or otherwise control the motor 505. The handle assembly 500can also include a sensor or sensors (not shown) that is configured todetect the position of the drive member and/or the direction in whichthe drive member is being moved. Actuation of the motor 505 can becontrolled by a firing trigger 532 (FIG. 1) that is pivotally supportedon the handle assembly 500. The firing trigger 532 may be pivotedbetween an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firingtrigger 532 may be biased into the unactuated position by a spring orother biasing arrangement such that when the clinician releases thefiring trigger 532, it may be pivoted or otherwise returned to theunactuated position by the spring or biasing arrangement. In at leastone form, the firing trigger 532 can be positioned “outboard” of theclosure trigger 512 as was discussed above. As discussed in U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2015/0272575, the handle assembly 500 may beequipped with a firing trigger safety button (not shown) to preventinadvertent actuation of the firing trigger 532. When the closuretrigger 512 is in the unactuated position, the safety button iscontained in the handle assembly 500 where the clinician cannot readilyaccess it and move it between a safety position preventing actuation ofthe firing trigger 532 and a firing position wherein the firing trigger532 may be fired. As the clinician depresses the closure trigger 512,the safety button and the firing trigger 532 pivot down wherein they canthen be manipulated by the clinician.

In at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member may have arack of teeth (not shown) formed thereon for meshing engagement with acorresponding drive gear arrangement (not shown) that interfaces withthe motor. Further details regarding those features may be found in U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575. At least one form alsoincludes a manually-actuatable “bailout” assembly that is configured toenable the clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movabledrive member should the motor 505 become disabled. The bailout assemblymay include a lever or bailout handle assembly that is stored within thehandle assembly 500 under a releasable door 550. See FIG. 2. The levermay be configured to be manually pivoted into ratcheting engagement withthe teeth in the drive member. Thus, the clinician can manually retractthe drive member by using the bailout handle assembly to ratchet thedrive member in the proximal direction “PD”. U.S. Pat. No. 8,608,045,entitled POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLYRETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein, discloses bailout arrangements andother components, arrangements and systems that may also be employedwith any one of the various interchangeable surgical tool assembliesdisclosed herein.

Turning now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly1000 includes a surgical end effector 1500 that comprises a first jaw1600 and a second jaw 1800. In one arrangement, the first jaw comprisesan elongate channel 1602 that is configured to operably support asurgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700 therein. The second jaw 1800comprises an anvil 1810 that is pivotally supported relative to theelongate channel 1602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000includes an articulation system 1300 that comprises an articulationjoint 1302 and an articulation lock 1400 (FIGS. 4-6) which can beconfigured to releasably hold the surgical end effector 1500 in adesired articulated position relative to a shaft axis SA₁. Furtherdetails regarding the articulation system and articulation lock may befound in U.S. patent application entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISINGAN ARTICULATION SYSTEM LOCKABLE TO A FRAME, Attorney Docket No.END8217USNP/170102, filed on even date herewith and hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

As can be further seen in FIGS. 4 and 7-9, the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 1000 includes a tool frame assembly 1200 that comprises atool chassis 1210 that operably supports a nozzle assembly 1240 thereon.In one form, the nozzle assembly 1240 is comprised of nozzle portions1242, 1244 as well as an actuator wheel portion 1246 that is configuredto be coupled to the assembled nozzle portions 1242, 1244 by snaps,lugs, screws etc. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000includes a proximal closure assembly 1900 which is operably coupled to adistal closure assembly 2000 that is utilized to close and/or open theanvil 1810 of the surgical end effector 1500 as will be discussed infurther detail below. In addition, the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 1000 includes a spine assembly 1250 that operably supports theproximal closure assembly 1900 and is coupled to the surgical endeffector 1500. In various circumstances, for ease of assembly, the spineassembly 1250 may be fabricated from an upper spine segment 1251 and alower spine segment 1252 that are interconnected together by snapfeatures, adhesive, welding, etc. In assembled form, the spine assembly1250 includes a proximal end 1253 that is rotatably supported in thetool chassis 1210. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end1253 of the spine assembly 1250 is attached to a spine bearing (notshown) that is configured to be supported within the tool chassis 1210.Such arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of the spine assembly1250 to the tool chassis 1210 such that the spine assembly 1250 may beselectively rotated about the shaft axis SA₁ relative to the toolchassis 1210. In particular, in one arrangement, for example, theproximal end 1253 of the spine assembly 1250 includes an upper lug seat1254 (FIGS. 4, 5, 7, 8 and 10) and a lower lug seat (not shown) that areeach configured to receive a corresponding nozzle lug 1245 extendinginwardly from each of the nozzle portions 1242, 1244. Such arrangementfacilitates rotation of the spine assembly 1250 about the shaft axis SA₁by rotating the actuator wheel portion 1246 of the nozzle assembly 1240.

As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, spine assembly 1250 further includes anintermediate spine shaft segment 1256 that has a diameter that is lessthan the diameter of the proximal end 1253 of the spine assembly 1250.The intermediate spine shaft segment 1256 of the upper spine segment1251 terminates in an upper lug mount feature 1260 and the intermediatespine shaft segment of the lower spine segment 1252 terminates in alower lug mount feature 1270. As can be most particularly seen in FIG.6, for example, the upper lug mount feature 1260 is formed with a lugslot 1262 therein that is adapted to mountingly support an uppermounting link 1264 therein. Similarly, the lower lug mount feature 1270is formed with a lug slot 1272 therein that is adapted to mountinglysupport a lower mounting link 1274 therein. The upper mounting link 1264includes a pivot socket 1266 therein that is offset from the shaft axisSA₁. The pivot socket 1266 is adapted to rotatably receive therein apivot pin 1634 that is formed on a channel cap or anvil retainer 1630that is attached to a proximal end portion 1610 of the elongate channel1602. The lower mounting link 1274 includes lower pivot pin 1276 thatadapted to be received within a pivot hole 1611 formed in the proximalend portion 1610 of the elongate channel 1602. See FIG. 6. The lowerpivot pin 1276 as well as the pivot hole 1611 is offset from the shaftaxis SA₁. The lower pivot pin 1276 is vertically aligned with the pivotsocket 1266 to define an articulation axis AA₁ about which the surgicalend effector 1500 may articulate relative to the shaft axis SA₁.Although the articulation axis AA₁ is transverse to the shaft axis SA₁,the articulation axis AA₁ is laterally offset therefrom and does notintersect the shaft axis SA₁.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 15, the anvil 1810 in the illustratedexample includes an anvil body 1812 that terminates in anvil mountingportion 1820. The anvil mounting portion 1820 is movably or pivotablysupported on the elongate channel 1602 for selective pivotal travelrelative thereto about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA₁ (FIG. 15) that istransverse to the shaft axis SA₁. In the illustrated arrangement, apivot member or anvil trunnion 1822 extends laterally out of eachlateral side of the anvil mounting portion 1820 to be received in acorresponding trunnion cradle 1614 formed in the upstanding walls 1612of the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongate channel 1602. The anviltrunnions 1822 are pivotally retained in their corresponding trunnioncradle 1614 by the channel cap or anvil retainer 1630. The channel capor anvil retainer 1630 includes a pair of attachment lugs 1636 that areconfigured to be retainingly received within corresponding lug groovesor notches 1616 formed in the upstanding walls 1612 of the proximal endportion 1610 of the elongate channel 1602.

In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 1500 isselectively articulatable about the articulation axis AA₁ by thearticulation system 1300. In one form, the articulation system 1300includes proximal articulation driver 1310 that is pivotally coupled toan articulation link 1320. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 6,an offset attachment lug 1314 is formed on a distal end 1312 of theproximal articulation driver 1310. A pivot hole 1316 is formed in theoffset attachment lug 1314 and is configured to pivotally receivetherein a proximal link pin 1326 formed on the proximal end 1325 of thearticulation link 1320. A distal end 1322 of the articulation link 1320includes a pivot hole 1324 that is configured to pivotally receivetherein a channel pin 1618 formed on the proximal end portion 1610 ofthe elongate channel 1602. Thus, axial movement of proximal articulationdriver 1310 will thereby apply articulation motions to the elongatechannel 1602 to thereby cause the surgical end effector 1500 toarticulate about the articulation axis AA₁ relative to the spineassembly 1250.

Movement of the anvil 1810 relative to the elongate channel 1602 iseffectuated by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 1900 andthe distal closure assembly 2000. Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 7, in theillustrated arrangement, the proximal closure assembly 1900 comprises aproximal closure tube 1910 that has a proximal closure tube portion 1920and a distal portion 1930. The distal portion 1930 has a diameter thatis less than the diameter of the proximal closure tube portion 1920. Theproximal end 1922 of the proximal closure tube portion 1920 is rotatablysupported in a closure shuttle 1940 that is slidably supported withinthe tool chassis 1210 such that it may be axially moved relativethereto. In one form, the closure shuttle 1940 includes a pair ofproximally-protruding hooks 1942 that are configured for attachment tothe attachment pin 516 that is attached to the closure linkage assembly514 of the handle assembly 500. The proximal end 1922 of the proximalclosure tube portion 1920 is coupled to the closure shuttle 1940 forrelative rotation thereto. For example, a U-shaped connector 1944 isinserted into an annular slot 1924 in the proximal closure tube portion1920 and is retained within vertical slots 1946 in the closure shuttle1940. Such arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure assembly1900 to the closure shuttle 1940 for axial travel therewith whileenabling the proximal closure assembly 1900 to rotate relative to theclosure shuttle 1940 about the shaft axis SA₁. A closure spring 1948(FIGS. 12-14) extends over the proximal closure tube portion 1920 tobias the closure shuttle 1940 in the proximal direction PD which canserve to pivot the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (FIG.2) into the unactuated position when the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 1000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly 500.

Referring now to FIGS. 5 and 6, a distal portion 1930 of the proximalclosure tube 1910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 2000. Inthe illustrated arrangement for example, the distal closure assembly2000 includes an articulation connector 2010 that is coupled to a distalclosure tube segment 2030. In the illustrated example, the distalclosure tube segment 2030 has a diameter that is larger than thediameter of the distal portion 1930 of the proximal closure tube 1910.The articulation connector 2010 has a proximally extending end portion2012 that is adapted to be received on a connection flange 1934 formedon the distal end of the distal portion 1930. The articulation connector2010 may be retained on the connection flange 1934 by an appropriatefastener arrangement such as adhesive, welding, etc. The articulationconnector 2010 includes upper and lower tangs 2014, 2016 protrudedistally from a distal end of the articulation connector 2010 to bemovably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distal closure tubesegment 2030. The distal closure tube segment 2030 includes an uppertang 2032 and a lower tang (not shown) that protrude proximally from aproximal end thereof. An upper double pivot link 2060 includes proximaland distal pins 2061, 2062 that engage corresponding holes 2015, 2034 inthe upper tangs 2014, 2032 of the articulation connector 2010 and distalclosure tube segment 2030, respectively. Similarly, a lower double pivotlink 2064 includes proximal and distal pins 2065, 2066 that engagecorresponding holes 2019 in the lower tangs 2016 of the articulationconnector 2010 and distal closure tube segment 2030, respectively. Aswill be discussed in further detail below, distal and proximal axialtranslation of the proximal closure assembly 1900 and distal closureassembly 2000 will result in the closing and opening of the anvil 1810relative to the elongate channel 1602.

In at least one arrangement, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly1000 further includes a firing system generally designated as 2100. Inthe illustrated example, the firing system 2100 includes a firing memberassembly 2110 that is supported for axial travel within the spineassembly 1250. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing member assembly2110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 that isconfigured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 2130.The firing member assembly 2110 may also be referred to herein as a“second shaft” and/or a “second shaft assembly”. As can be seen in FIG.5, the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 may include a longitudinalslot 2124 in a distal end 2122 thereof which can be configured toreceive a proximal end 2132 of the knife bar 2130. The longitudinal slot2124 and the proximal end 2132 of the knife bar 2130 can be sized andconfigured to permit relative movement therebetween and can comprise aslip joint 2134. The slip joint 2134 can permit the intermediate firingshaft portion 2120 of the firing member assembly 2110 to be moved toarticulate the end effector 1500 without moving, or at leastsubstantially moving, the knife bar 2130. Once the end effector 1500 hasbeen suitably oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 canbe advanced distally until a proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot2124 comes into contact with a portion of the knife bar 2130 to advancethe knife bar 2130 and fire the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700positioned within the elongate channel 1602. In the illustratedarrangement, a proximal end 2127 of the intermediate firing shaftportion 2120 has a firing shaft attachment lug 2128 formed thereon (FIG.8) that is configured to be seated into an attachment cradle (not shown)that is on the distal end of the longitudinally movable drive member(not shown) of the firing drive system 530 within the handle assembly500. Such arrangement facilitates the axial movement of the intermediatefiring shaft portion 2120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530.

Further to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 can includea shifter assembly 2200 which can be configured to selectively andreleasably couple the proximal articulation driver 1310 to the firingsystem 2100. In one form, the shifter assembly 2200 includes a lockcollar, or lock sleeve 2210, positioned around the intermediate firingshaft portion 2120 of the firing system 2100 wherein the lock sleeve2210 can be rotated between an engaged position in which the lock sleeve2210 couples the proximal articulation driver 1310 to the firing memberassembly 2110 and a disengaged position in which the proximalarticulation driver 1310 is not operably coupled to the firing memberassembly 2110. When lock sleeve 2210 is in its engaged position, distalmovement of the firing member assembly 2110 can move the proximalarticulation driver 1310 distally and, correspondingly, proximalmovement of the firing member assembly 2110 can move the proximalarticulation driver 1310 proximally. When lock sleeve 2210 is in itsdisengaged position, movement of the firing member assembly 2110 is nottransmitted to the proximal articulation driver 1310 and, as a result,the firing member assembly 2110 can move independently of the proximalarticulation driver 1310. In various circumstances, the proximalarticulation driver 1310 can be held in position by the articulationlock 1400 when the proximal articulation driver 1310 is not being movedin the proximal or distal directions by the firing member assembly 2110.

In the illustrated arrangement, the intermediate firing shaft portion2120 of the firing member assembly 2110 is formed with two opposed flatsides 2121, 2123 with a drive notch 2126 formed therein. See FIG. 8. Ascan also be seen in FIG. 13, the lock sleeve 2210 comprises acylindrical, or an at least substantially cylindrical, body thatincludes a longitudinal aperture 2212 that is configured to receive theintermediate firing shaft portion 2120 therethrough. The lock sleeve2210 can comprise diametrically-opposed, inwardly-facing lockprotrusions 2214, 2216 that, when the lock sleeve 2210 is in oneposition, are engagingly received within corresponding portions of thedrive notch 2126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 and, whenin another position, are not received within the drive notch 2126 tothereby permit relative axial motion between the lock sleeve 2210 andthe intermediate firing shaft portion 2120.

Referring now to FIGS. 8 and 12-14, in the illustrated example, the locksleeve 2210 further includes a lock member 2218 that is sized to bemovably received within a notch 1319 in a proximal end 1318 of theproximal articulation driver 1310. Such arrangement permits the locksleeve 2210 to slightly rotate into and out of engagement with theintermediate firing shaft portion 2120 while remaining in engagementwith the notch 1319 in the proximal articulation driver 1310. Forexample, when the lock sleeve 2210 is in its engaged position, the lockprotrusions 2214, 2216 are positioned within the drive notch 2126 in theintermediate firing shaft portion 2120 such that a distal pushing forceand/or a proximal pulling force can be transmitted from the firingmember assembly 2110 to the lock sleeve 2210. Such axial pushing orpulling motion is then transmitted from the lock sleeve 2210 to theproximal articulation driver 1310 to thereby articulate the surgical endeffector 1500. In effect, the firing member assembly 2110, the locksleeve 2210, and the proximal articulation driver 1310 will movetogether when the lock sleeve 2210 is in its engaged (articulation)position. On the other hand, when the lock sleeve 2210 is in itsdisengaged position, the lock protrusions 2214, 2216 are not receivedwithin the drive notch 2126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion2120 and, as a result, a distal pushing force and/or a proximal pullingforce may not be transmitted from the firing member assembly 2110 to thelock sleeve 2210 (and the proximal articulation driver 1310).

In the illustrated example, relative movement of the lock sleeve 2210between its engaged and disengaged positions may be controlled by ashifter assembly 2200 that is interfaces with the proximal closure tube1910 of the proximal closure assembly 1900. More specifically and withreference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the shifter assembly 2200 further includes ashifter key 2240 that is configured to be slidably received within a keygroove 2217 formed in the outer perimeter of the lock sleeve 2210. Sucharrangement enables the shifter key 2240 to move axially with respect tothe lock sleeve 2210. Referring to FIGS. 8-11, the shifter key 2240includes an actuator lug 2242 that extends through a cam slot or camopening 1926 in the proximal closure tube portion 1920. See FIG. 9. Acam surface 2243 is also provided adjacent the actuator lug 2242 whichis configured to cammingly interact with the cam opening 1926 so as tocause the shifter key 2240 to rotate in response to axial motion of theproximal closure tube portion 1920.

Also in the illustrated example, the shifter assembly 2200 furtherincludes a switch drum 2220 that is rotatably received on a proximal endportion of the proximal closure tube portion 1920. As can be seen inFIGS. 10-14, the actuator lug 2242 extends through an axial slot segment2222 in the switch drum 2220 and is movably received within an arcuateslot segment 2224 in the switch drum 2220. A switch drum torsion spring2226 (FIGS. 12-14) is mounted on the switch drum 2220 and engages nozzleportion 1244 to apply a torsional bias or rotation (arrow SR in FIGS. 10and 11) which serves to rotate the switch drum 2220 until the actuatorlug 2242 reaches the end of the arcuate slot segment 2224. See FIGS. 11and 12. When in this position, the switch drum 2220 may provide atorsional bias to the shifter key 2240 which thereby causes the locksleeve 2210 to rotate into its engaged position with the intermediatefiring shaft portion 2120. This position also corresponds to theunactuated configuration of the proximal closure assembly 1900. In onearrangement, for example, when the proximal closure assembly 1900 is inan unactuated configuration (anvil 1810 is in an open position spacedaway from the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700) the actuator lug2242 is located in the upper portion of the cam opening 1926 in theproximal closure tube portion 1920. When in that position, actuation ofthe intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 will result in the axialmovement of the proximal articulation driver 1310. Once the user hasarticulated the surgical end effector 1500 to a desired orientation, theuser may then actuate the proximal closure assembly 1900. Actuation ofthe proximal closure assembly 1900 will result in the distal travel ofthe proximal closure tube portion 1920 to ultimately apply a closingmotion to the anvil 1810. This distal travel of the proximal closuretube portion 1920 will result in the cam opening 1926 camminglyinteracting with the cam surface 2243 on the actuator lug 2242 tothereby cause the shifter key 2240 to rotate the lock sleeve 2210 in anactuation direction AD. Such rotation of the lock sleeve 2210 willresult in the disengagement of the lock protrusions 2214, 2216 from thedrive notch 2126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120. When insuch configuration, the firing drive system 530 may be actuated toactuate the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120 without actuating theproximal articulation driver 1310. Further details concerning theoperation of the switch drum 2220 and lock sleeve 2210, as well asalternative articulation and firing drive arrangements that may beemployed with the various interchangeable surgical tool assembliesdescribed herein, may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541,and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, the entire disclosuresof which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Referring again to FIGS. 8-13, the switch drum 2220 can further compriseat least partially circumferential openings 2228, 2230 defined thereinwhich can receive circumferential lugs/mounts 1245 that extend from thenozzle portions 1242, 1244 and permit relative rotation, but nottranslation, between the switch drum 2220 and the nozzle assembly 1240.The nozzle lugs 1245 extend through corresponding openings 1923 in theproximal closure tube portion 1920 to be seated in lug seats 1254 in thespine assembly 1250. See FIGS. 8 and 9. Such arrangement enables theuser to rotate the spine assembly 1250 about the shaft axis by rotatingthe nozzle assembly 1240.

As also illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 12-14, the interchangeable toolassembly 1000 can comprise a slip ring assembly 1230 which can beconfigured to conduct electrical power to and/or from the surgical endeffector 1500 and/or communicate signals to and/or from the surgical endeffector 1500, back to a microprocessor 560 (FIG. 2) in the handleassembly 500 or robotic system controller, for example. Further detailsconcerning the slip ring assembly 1230 and associated connectors may befound in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2014/0263541, and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/019,196 which have each been herein incorporated byreference in their respective entirety as well as in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUETHICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263552, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety. As also described in further detail in the aforementionedpatent applications that have been incorporated by reference herein, theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 can also comprise at leastone sensor that is configured to detect the position of the switch drum2220.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the tool chassis 1210 includes at least one,and preferably two, tapered attachment portions 1212 formed thereon thatare adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail slots 507formed within the distal end portion of the handle frame 506 of thehandle assembly 500. Various interchangeable surgical tool assembliesemploy a latch system 1220 for removably coupling the interchangeablesurgical tool assembly 1000 to the handle frame 506 of the handleassembly 500. As can be seen in FIG. 7, for example, in at least oneform, the latch system 1220 includes a lock member or lock yoke 1222that is movably coupled to the tool chassis 1210. In the illustratedembodiment, for example, the lock yoke 1222 has a U-shape with twospaced downwardly extending legs 1223. The legs 1223 each have a pivotlug (not shown) formed thereon that are adapted to be received incorresponding holes formed in the tool chassis 1210. Such arrangementfacilitates pivotal attachment of the lock yoke 1222 to the tool chassis1210. The lock yoke 1222 may include two proximally protruding lock lugs1224 that are configured for releasable engagement with correspondinglock detents or grooves 509 in the distal end of the handle frame 506 ofthe handle assembly 500. See FIG. 2. In various forms, the lock yoke1222 is biased in the proximal direction by a spring or biasing member1225. Actuation of the lock yoke 1222 may be accomplished by a latchbutton 1226 that is slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1221that is mounted to the tool chassis 1210. The latch button 1226 may bebiased in a proximal direction relative to the lock yoke 1222. The lockyoke 1222 may be moved to an unlocked position by biasing the latchbutton 1226 in the distal direction which also causes the lock yoke 1222to pivot out of retaining engagement with the distal end of the handleframe 506. When the lock yoke 1222 is in “retaining engagement” with thedistal end of the handle frame 506, the lock lugs 1224 are retaininglyseated within the corresponding lock detents or grooves 509 in thedistal end of the handle frame 506.

In the illustrated arrangement, the lock yoke 1222 includes at least oneand preferably two lock hooks 1227 that are adapted to contactcorresponding lock lug portions 1943 that are formed on the closureshuttle 1940. When the closure shuttle 1940 is in an unactuatedposition, the lock yoke 1222 may be pivoted in a distal direction tounlock the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 from the handleassembly 500. When in that position, the lock hooks 1227 do not contactthe lock lug portions 1943 on the closure shuttle 1940. However, whenthe closure shuttle 1940 is moved to an actuated position, the lock yoke1222 is prevented from being pivoted to an unlocked position. Statedanother way, if the clinician were to attempt to pivot the lock yoke1222 to an unlocked position or, for example, the lock yoke 1222 wasinadvertently bumped or contacted in a manner that might otherwise causeit to pivot distally, the lock hooks 1227 on the lock yoke 1222 willcontact the lock lug portions 1943 on the closure shuttle 1940 andprevent movement of the lock yoke 1222 to an unlocked position.

Referring again to FIG. 6, the knife bar 2130 may comprise a laminatedbeam structure that includes at least two beam layers. Such beam layersmay comprise, for example, stainless steel bands that are interconnectedby, for example, welding or pinning together at their proximal endsand/or at other locations along their length. In alternativeembodiments, the distal ends of the bands are not connected together toallow the laminates or bands to splay relative to each other when theend effector is articulated. Such arrangement permits the knife bar 2130to be sufficiently flexible to accommodate articulation of the endeffector. Various laminated knife bar arrangements are disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTSWITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety. As can also be seen in FIG. 6, a firingshaft support assembly 2300 is employed to provide lateral support tothe knife bar 2130 as it flexes to accommodate articulation of thesurgical end effector 1500. Further details concerning the operation ofthe firing shaft support assembly 2300 and alternative knife bar supportarrangements may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONARRANGEMENTS and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,220, entitledSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLE ENDEFFECTOR, which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir respective entireties.

As can also be seen in FIG. 6, a firing member or knife member 2140 isattached to the distal end of the knife bar 2130. In one exemplary form,the firing member 2140 comprises a body portion 2142 that supports aknife or tissue cutting portion 2144. The body portion 2142 protrudesthrough an elongate slot 1604 in the elongate channel 1602 andterminates in a foot member 2146 that extends laterally on each side ofthe body portion 2142. As the firing member 2140 is driven distallythrough the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700, the foot member2146 rides within a passage 1622 (FIG. 48) in the elongate channel 1602that is located under the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700. Inone arrangement, the body portion 2142 includes two laterally protrudingcentral tabs 2145 that may ride above the central passage within thesurgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700. See FIG. 6. The tissue cuttingportion 2144 is disposed between a distally protruding top nose portion2143. As can be further seen in FIG. 6, the firing member 2140 mayfurther include two laterally extending top tabs, pins or anvilengagement features 2147. As the firing member 2140 is driven distally,a top portion of the body portion 2142 extends through a centrallydisposed anvil slot 1814 and the anvil engagement features 2147 ride oncorresponding anvil ledges 1816 formed on each side of the anvil slot1814. In one arrangement, to facilitate assembly of the anvil 1810 andfiring member 2140 arrangement, the top of the anvil body 1812 has anopening 1817 therein. Once the anvil 1810 is assembled onto the elongatechannel 1602 and the firing member 2140 is installed, the opening 1817is covered by an anvil cap 1819 that is affixed to the anvil body 1812by welding or other suitable fastening means.

Returning to FIG. 6, the firing member 2140 is configured to operablyinterface with a sled assembly 2150 that is operably supported within abody 1702 of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700. The sledassembly 2150 is slidably displaceable within the surgicalstaple/fastener cartridge body 1702 from a proximal starting positionadjacent the proximal end 1704 of the cartridge body 1702 to an endingposition adjacent a distal end 1706 of the cartridge body 1702. Thecartridge body 1702 operably supports therein a plurality of stapledrivers (not shown) that are aligned in rows on each side of a centrallydisposed slot 1708. The centrally disposed slot 1708 enables the firingmember 2140 to pass therethrough and cut the tissue that is clampedbetween the anvil 1810 and the surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700.The drivers are associated with corresponding staple/fastener pockets1712 that open through an upper deck surface 1710 of the cartridge body1702. Each of the staple drivers supports one or more surgicalstaple/fastener or fastener (not shown) thereon. The sled assembly 2150includes a plurality of sloped or wedge-shaped cams 2152 wherein eachcam 2152 corresponds to a particular line of fasteners or driverslocated on a side of the slot 1708.

Attachment of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to thehandle assembly 500 will now be described with reference to FIG. 2. Tocommence the coupling process, the clinician may position the toolchassis 1210 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 above oradjacent to the distal end of the handle frame 506 such that the taperedattachment portions 1212 formed on the tool chassis 1210 are alignedwith the dovetail slots 507 in the handle frame 506. The clinician maythen move the surgical tool assembly 1000 along an installation axis IAthat is perpendicular to the shaft axis SA₁ to seat the taperedattachment portions 1212 in “operable engagement” with the correspondingdovetail receiving slots 507 in the distal end of the handle frame 506.In doing so, the firing shaft attachment lug 2128 on the intermediatefiring shaft portion 2120 will also be seated in the attachment cradle(not shown) in the longitudinally movable drive member (not shown)within the handle assembly 500 and the portions of attachment pin 516 onthe closure link 514 will be seated in the corresponding hooks 1942 inthe closure shuttle 1940. As used herein, the term “operable engagement”in the context of two components means that the two components aresufficiently engaged with each other so that upon application of anactuation motion thereto, the components may carry out their intendedaction, function and/or procedure.

During a typical surgical procedure, the clinician may introduce thesurgical end effector 1500 into the surgical site through a trocar orother opening in the patient to access the target tissue. When doing so,the clinician typically axially aligns the surgical end effector 1500along the shaft axis (unarticulated state). Once the surgical endeffector 1500 has passed through the trocar port, for example, theclinician may need to articulate the end effector 1500 to advantageouslyposition it adjacent the target tissue. This is prior to closing theanvil onto the target tissue, so the closure drive system 510 wouldremain unactuated. When in this position, actuation of the firing drivesystem 530 will result in the application of articulation motions to theproximal articulation driver 1310. Once the end effector has attainedthe desired articulated position, the firing drive system 530 isdeactivated and the articulation lock 1400 may retain the surgical endeffector 1500 in the articulated position. The clinician may thenactuate the closure drive system 510 to close the anvil 1810 onto thetarget tissue. Such actuation of the closure drive system 510 may alsoresult in the shifter assembly 2200 delinking the proximal articulationdriver from the intermediate firing shaft portion 2120. Thus, once thetarget tissue has been captured in the surgical end effector 1500, theclinician may once again actuate the firing drive system 530 to axiallyadvance the firing member 2140 through the surgical staple/fastenercartridge 1700 to cut the clamped tissue and fire the staples into thecut tissue. Other closure and firing drive arrangements, actuatorarrangements (both handheld, manual and automated or robotic) may alsobe employed to control the axial movement of the closure systemcomponents, the articulation system components and/or the firing systemcomponents of the surgical tool assembly 1000 without departing from thespirit and scope of the various inventions disclosed herein.

Returning now to FIG. 1, the surgical system 10 illustrated in thatFigure includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000,3000, 5000 and 7000 that may each be effectively employed with the samehandle assembly 500 to perform different surgical procedures. Turningnow to FIGS. 16-18, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000includes a surgical end effector 3500 that comprises a first jaw 3600and a second jaw 3800. In one arrangement, the first jaw comprises anelongate channel 3602 that is configured to operably support a surgicalstaple/fastener cartridge 3700 therein. The second jaw 3800 comprises ananvil 3810 that is pivotally supported relative to the elongate channel3602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes anarticulation system 3300 that comprises an articulation joint 3302 andan articulation lock 3400 which can be configured to releasably hold thesurgical end effector 3500 in a desired articulated position relative toa shaft axis SA₂. Details regarding the construction and operation ofthe articulation lock 3400 as well as alternative lock configurationsand operational details may be found in in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ANARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. Additional details concerning the articulation lock3400 may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196,filed Feb. 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISMWITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein.

As can be seen in FIG. 17, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly3000 includes a tool frame assembly 3200 that comprises a tool chassis3210 that operably supports a nozzle assembly 3240 thereon. In one form,the nozzle assembly 3240 is comprised of nozzle portions 3242, 3244 aswell as an actuator wheel portion 3246 that is configured to be coupledto the assembled nozzle portions 3242, 3244 by snaps, lugs, screws etc.The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 includes a proximalclosure assembly 3900 which is operably coupled to a distal closureassembly 4000 that is utilized to close and/or open the anvil 3810 ofthe surgical end effector 3500 as will be discussed in further detailbelow. In addition, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000includes an “elastic” spine assembly 3250 that operably supports theproximal closure assembly 3900 and is coupled to the surgical endeffector 3500. One exemplary form of spine assembly 3250 is disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICALSTAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRINGSYSTEMS, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. For example, the spine assembly 3250 may comprise anelastic spine member that has a proximal end portion 3253 and a distalend portion 3280 that is separated from the proximal end portion 3253 ofthe elastic spine assembly 3250 by a stretch feature 3282 formedtherebetween. In addition, a stretch limiting insert 3284 is retaininglysupported between the distal end portion 3280 and the proximal endportion 3253. In various arrangements, the elastic spine assembly 3250may be fabricated from, for example, suitable polymeric material,rubber, etc. which has a modulus of elasticity designated as ME₁ forreference purposes. The stretch limiting insert 3284 may have a modulusof elasticity designated as ME₂ for reference purposes. In variouscircumstances, the stretch limiting insert 3284 also includes a pair ofstretch limiters 3285 (only one is shown in FIG. 17). The stretchlimiter 3285 may have a modulus of elasticity for reference purposes ofME₃. In at least one arrangement, ME₃<ME₂<ME₁. Further details about atleast one implementation of the elastic spine assembly 3250 and stretchlimiting insert 3284 may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/385,911.

In the illustrated arrangement, the distal end portion 3280 of the spineassembly 3250 has an opening 3281 therein for ease of assembly. A spinecap 3283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening 3281 after thevarious components have been assembled therein. In assembled form, theproximal end portion 3253 of the spine assembly 3250 is rotatablysupported in the tool chassis 3210. In one arrangement, for example, theproximal end of the proximal end portion 3253 of the spine assembly 3250is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) that is configured to besupported within the tool chassis 3210. Such arrangement facilitatesrotatable attachment of the spine assembly 3250 to the tool chassis 3210such that the spine assembly 3250 may be selectively rotated about ashaft axis SA₂ relative to the tool chassis 3210. In particular, in onearrangement, for example, the proximal end portion 3253 of the spineassembly 3250 includes two diametrically opposed lug seats 3254 (onlyone can be seen in FIG. 17) that are each configured to receive acorresponding nozzle lug (not shown) that extend inwardly from each ofthe nozzle portions 3242, 3244. Such arrangement facilitates rotation ofthe spine assembly 3250 about the shaft axis SA₂ by rotating theactuator wheel portion 3246 of the nozzle assembly 3240.

Referring now to FIG. 18, the distal end portion 3280 of the elasticspine assembly 3250 is attached to a distal frame segment 3286 thatoperably supports the articulation lock 3400 therein. The spine assembly3250 is configured to, one, slidably support a firing member assembly4110 therein and, two, slidably support the proximal closure tube 3910which extends around the spine assembly 3250. The spine assembly 3250can also be configured to slidably support a proximal articulationdriver 3310. As can be seen in FIG. 18, the distal frame segment 3286 ispivotally coupled to the elongate channel 3602 by an end effectormounting assembly 3290. In one arrangement, for example, the distal endof the distal frame segment 3286 has a pivot pin 3288 formed thereon.The pivot pin 3288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivothole 3292 formed in pivot base portion 3291 of the end effector mountingassembly 3290. The end effector mounting assembly 3290 is attached to aproximal end 3610 of the elongate channel 3602 by a spring pin 3620 orother suitable member that is received within mounting holes 3611 in theproximal end portion 3610. The pivot pin 3288 defines an articulationaxis AA₂ that is transverse to the shaft axis SA₂. See FIG. 18. Sucharrangement facilitates pivotal travel (i.e., articulation) of thesurgical end effector 3500 about the articulation axis AA₂ relative tothe elastic spine assembly 3250. The distal frame segment 3286 isfurther configured to support the articulation lock 3400 therein.Various articulation lock arrangements may be employed. At least oneform of articulation lock 3400 is described in further detail in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Additional details concerning thearticulation lock may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/019,196, filed Feb. 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT.

In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 3500 is electivelyarticulatable about the articulation axis AA₂ by the articulation system3300. In one form, the articulation system 3300 includes the proximalarticulation driver 3310 that operably interfaces with the articulationlock 3400. The articulation lock 3400 includes an articulation frame3402 that is adapted to operably engage a drive pin 3293 on the pivotbase portion 3291 of the end effector mounting assembly 3290. Inaddition, a cross link 3294 may be linked to the drive pin 3293 andarticulation frame 3402 to assist articulation of the surgical endeffector 3500. As indicated above, further details regarding theoperation of the articulation lock 3400 and the articulation frame 3402may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Further detailsregarding the end effector mounting assembly and cross link 3294 may befound in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, filed Feb. 9,2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONARRANGEMENTS, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. As further described therein, as well as in otherdisclosures incorporated by reference herein, axial movement of proximalarticulation driver 3310 will result in the engagement/disengagement ofthe articulation lock 3400 to thereby apply articulation motions to theelongate channel 3602 and thereby cause the surgical end effector 3500to articulate about the articulation axis AA₂ relative to the spineassembly 3250.

The anvil 3810 in the illustrated example includes an anvil body 3812that terminates in anvil mounting portion 3820. The anvil mountingportion 3820 is movably or pivotably supported on the elongate channel3602 for selective pivotal travel relative thereto about a fixed anvilpivot axis PA₂ (FIG. 18) that is transverse to the shaft axis SA₂. Inthe illustrated arrangement, an anvil trunnion 3822 extends laterallyout of each lateral side of the anvil mounting portion 3820 to bereceived in a corresponding trunnion pivot hole 3613 formed in theupstanding walls 3612 of the proximal end portion 3610 of the elongatechannel 3602. Movement of the anvil 3810 relative to the elongatechannel 3602 is effectuated by axial movement of the proximal closureassembly 3900 and the distal closure assembly 4000. In the illustratedarrangement, the proximal closure assembly 3900 comprises a proximalclosure tube 3910 that has a proximal end 3912 and a distal end 3914.The proximal end 3912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 3940that is slidably supported within the tool chassis 3210 such that it maybe axially moved relative thereto. In one form, the closure shuttle 3940includes a pair of proximally-protruding hooks 3942 that are configuredfor attachment to the transverse attachment pin 516 that is attached tothe closure linkage assembly 514 of the handle assembly 500. Theproximal end 3912 is coupled to the closure shuttle 3940 for relativerotation thereto. For example, a U-shaped connector 3944 is insertedinto an annular slot 3916 in the proximal end 3912 and is retainedwithin vertical slots 3946 in the closure shuttle 3940. Such arrangementserves to attach the proximal closure assembly 3900 to the closureshuttle 3940 for axial travel therewith while enabling the proximalclosure tube 3910 to rotate relative to the closure shuttle 3940 aboutthe shaft axis SA₂. As was discussed above in connection with theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, a closure spring (notshown) may extend over the proximal end 3912 of the proximal closuretube 3910 to bias the closure shuttle 3940 in the proximal direction PDwhich can serve to pivot the closure trigger 512 on the handle assembly500 (FIG. 2) into the unactuated position when the interchangeablesurgical tool assembly 3000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly500 in the above described manner.

As can be seen in FIG. 18, the distal end 3914 of the proximal closuretube 3910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 4000. The distalend 3914 includes upper and lower tangs 3917, 3918 that are configuredto be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distalclosure tube segment 4030. The distal closure tube segment 4030 includesan upper tang 4032 and a lower tang 4034 that protrude proximally from aproximal end thereof. An upper double pivot link 4060 pivotally couplesthe upper tangs 3917 and 4032 and a lower double pivot link 4064pivotally couples the lower tangs 3918 and 4034 together in theabove-described manner. The distal advancement of the distal closuretube segment 4030 on the anvil mounting portion 3820 will result inclosure or pivotal travel of the anvil 3810 towards the elongate channel3602 about the fixed anvil pivot axis PA₂. In the illustratedarrangement, the distal closure tube segment 4030 also includes positivejaw or anvil opening features 4040 that are configured to coact withsurfaces or ramp portions on the anvil mounting portion 3820 so as tocause the anvil 3810 to pivot from a closed position to an open positionas the distal closure tube segment 4030 is moved proximally back to astarting position. Other embodiments may not employ the positive jawopening features, but may rely on springs or other biasing arrangementsto bias the anvil to the open position when the distal closure tubesegment has been retracted to its proximal-most starting position.Further details regarding configurations and operation of the anvilopening features may be found in for example, U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITHINDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS.

In the illustrated arrangement, the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 3000 further includes a firing system generally designated as4100. In various instances, the firing system 4100 includes a firingmember assembly 4110 that is supported for axial travel within the spineassembly 3250. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing member assembly4110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 that isconfigured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 4130.A support bushing arrangement 4121 may be employed to support theintermediate firing shaft portion 4120 within the spine assembly 3250.The firing member assembly 4110 may also be referred to herein as a“second shaft” and/or a “second shaft assembly”. As can be seen in FIG.18, the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 may include alongitudinal slot 4124 in a distal end 4122 thereof which can beconfigured to receive a proximal end 4132 of the knife bar 4130. Thelongitudinal slot 4124 and the proximal end 4132 of the knife bar 4130can be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween andcan comprise a slip joint 4134. The slip joint 4134 can permit theintermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of the firing member assembly4110 to be moved to articulate the end effector 3500 without moving, orat least substantially moving, the knife bar 4130 as was discussedabove. In the illustrated arrangement, a proximal end 4127 of theintermediate firing shaft portion 4120 has a firing shaft attachment lug4128 formed thereon that is configured to be seated into the attachmentcradle (not shown) that is on the distal end of the longitudinallymovable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 withinthe handle assembly 500 as was discussed above. Such arrangementfacilitates the axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion4120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachmentconfigurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firingshaft portion 4120 to other firing drive arrangements (e.g., manuallyactuated, robotic, etc.).

Further to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 3000 can includea shifter assembly 4200 which can be configured to selectively andreleasably couple the proximal articulation driver 3310 to the firingmember assembly 4110 in the manner described above. In one form, theshifter assembly 4200 includes a lock collar, or lock sleeve 4210,positioned around the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of thefiring member assembly 4110 wherein the lock sleeve 4210 can be rotatedbetween an engaged position in which the lock sleeve 4210 couples theproximal articulation driver 3310 to the firing member assembly 4110 anda disengaged position in which the proximal articulation driver 3310 isnot operably coupled to the firing member assembly 4110. As wasdiscussed above, the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120 of thefiring member assembly 4110 is formed with a drive notch 4126. The locksleeve 4210 comprises a cylindrical, or an at least substantiallycylindrical, body that includes a longitudinal aperture 4212 that isconfigured to receive the intermediate firing shaft portion 4120therethrough. The lock sleeve 4210 can comprise diametrically-opposed,inwardly-facing lock protrusions 4214, 4216 that, when the lock sleeve4210 is in one position, are engagingly received within correspondingportions of the drive notch 4126 in the intermediate firing shaftportion 4120 and, when in another position, are not received within thedrive notch 4126 to thereby permit relative axial motion between thelock sleeve 4210 and the intermediate firing shaft 4120 as was discussedin further detail above. The lock sleeve 4210 further includes a lockmember 4218 that is sized to be movably received within a notch 3319 ina proximal end of the proximal articulation driver 3310. When the locksleeve 4210 is in its engaged position, the lock protrusions 4214, 4216are positioned within the drive notch 4126 in the intermediate firingshaft portion 4120 such that a distal pushing force and/or a proximalpulling force can be transmitted from the firing member assembly 4110 tothe lock sleeve 4210. Such axial pushing or pulling motion is thentransmitted from the lock sleeve 4210 to the proximal articulationdriver 3310 to thereby articulate the surgical end effector 3500.

As was discussed above, in the illustrated example, relative movement ofthe lock sleeve 4210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may becontrolled by the shifter assembly 4200 that interfaces with theproximal closure tube 3910 of the proximal closure assembly 3900. Theshifter assembly 4200 further includes a shifter key 4240 that isconfigured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to thekey groove 2217 illustrated in FIG. 8) formed in the outer perimeter ofthe lock sleeve 4210. Such arrangement enables the shifter key 4240 tomove axially with respect to the lock sleeve 4210. Operation of theshifter assembly 4200 may be identical to the operation of the shifterassembly 2200 which was described in further detail above and which willnot be repeated again for brevity. Further details, alternativearrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosedin other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITHINDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, theas well as other disclosures that have bee incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 3000 can comprise a slip ring assembly3230 which can be configured to conduct electrical power to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 3500 and/or communicate signals to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 3500, back to a microprocessor 560 in thehandle assembly 500 or robotic system controller, for example as wasdiscussed above. Further details concerning the slip ring assembly 3230and associated connectors may be found in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196 which haveeach been herein incorporated by reference in their respective entiretyas well as in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitledSTAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, now U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2014/0263552, which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

The illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 also employsa latch system 3220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 3000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500,for example. The latch system 3220 may be identical to the latch system1220 described in detail above. The knife bar 4130 may comprise alaminated beam structure that includes at least two beam layers. Suchbeam layers may comprise, for example, stainless steel bands that areinterconnected by, for example, welding or pinning together at theirproximal ends and/or at other locations along their length. Inalternative embodiments, the distal ends of the bands are not connectedtogether to allow the laminates or bands to splay relative to each otherwhen the end effector is articulated. Such arrangement permits the knifebar 4130 to be sufficiently flexible to accommodate articulation of theend effector. Various laminated knife bar arrangements are disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. As can also be seen in FIG.18, a firing shaft support assembly 4300 is employed to provide lateralsupport to the knife bar 4130 as it flexes to accommodate articulationof the surgical end effector 3500. Further details concerning theoperation of the firing shaft support assembly 4300 and alternativeknife bar support arrangements may be found in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKEREDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,220,entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLEEND EFFECTOR, which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir respective entireties.

As can also be seen in FIG. 18, a firing member or knife member 4140 isattached to the distal end of the knife bar 4130. The firing member 4140is configured to operably interface with a sled assembly 4150 that isoperably supported within the body 3702 of the surgical staple/fastenercartridge 3700. The sled assembly 4150 is slidably displaceable withinthe surgical staple/fastener cartridge body 3702 from a proximalstarting position adjacent the proximal end 3704 of the cartridge body3702 to an ending position adjacent a distal end 3706 of the cartridgebody 3702. The cartridge body 3702 operably supports therein a pluralityof staple drivers (not shown) that are aligned in rows on each side of acentrally disposed slot 3708. The centrally disposed slot 3708 enablesthe firing member 4140 to pass therethrough and cut the tissue that isclamped between the anvil 3810 and the staple cartridge 3700. Thedrivers are associated with corresponding staple pockets 3712 that openthrough the deck surface 3710 of the cartridge body 3702. Each of thestaple drivers supports one or more surgical staple/fastener or fastener(not shown) thereon. The sled assembly 4150 includes a plurality ofsloped or wedge-shaped cams 4152 wherein each cam 4152 corresponds to aparticular line of fasteners or drivers located on a side of the slot3708.

In one exemplary form, the firing member 4140 comprises a body portion4142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 4144. See FIG. 49.The body portion 4142 protrudes through an elongate slot 3604 in theelongate channel 3602 and terminates in a foot member 4146 that extendslaterally on each side of the body portion 4142. As the firing member4140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge3700, the foot member 4146 rides within a passage 3622 in the elongatechannel 3602 that is located under the surgical staple/fastenercartridge 3700. The tissue cutting portion 4144 is disposed between adistally protruding top nose portion 4143. As can be further seen inFIG. 18, the firing member 4140 may further include two laterallyextending top tabs, pins or anvil engagement features 4147. As thefiring member 4140 is driven distally, a top portion of the body portion4142 extends through a centrally disposed anvil slot 3814 and the anvilengagement features 4147 ride on corresponding ledges 3816 formed oneach side of the anvil slot 3814. Further details concerning the firingmember 4140, sled assembly 4150 and their various alternatives as wellas examples of their operation will be discussed in further detail belowand may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,911,entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSINGAND FIRING SYSTEMS. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 maybe to the handle assembly 500 in the manner as described above withrespect to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000.

Returning again to FIG. 1, as was discussed above, the surgical system10 illustrated in that Figure includes four interchangeable surgicaltool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 that may each be effectivelyemployed with the same handle assembly 500 to perform different surgicalprocedures. Turning now to FIGS. 19-21, the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 5000 includes a surgical end effector 5500 that comprisesa first jaw 5600 and a second jaw 5800. In one arrangement, the firstjaw comprises an elongate channel 5602 that is configured to operablysupport a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700 therein. The secondjaw 5800 comprises an anvil 5810 that is movably supported relative tothe elongate channel 5602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly5000 includes an articulation system 5300 that comprises an articulationjoint 5302 and an articulation lock 5400 which can be configured toreleasably hold the surgical end effector 5500 in a desired articulatedposition relative to a shaft axis SA₃. Details regarding theconstruction and operation of the articulation lock 5400 as well asalternative lock configurations and operational details may be found inin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,894, entitled SHAFT ASSEMBLYCOMPRISING A LOCK OUT, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Alternative articulation lockarrangements may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ANARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, filed Feb.9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITHSLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT, the entire disclosures of each suchreference being hereby incorporated by reference herein.

As can be seen in FIG. 20, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly5000 includes a tool frame assembly 5200 that comprises a tool chassis5210 that operably supports a nozzle assembly 5240 thereon. In one form,the nozzle assembly 5240 is comprised of nozzle portions 5242, 5244 aswell as an actuator wheel portion 5246 that is configured to be coupledto the assembled nozzle portions 5242, 5244 by snaps, lugs, screws etc.The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes a proximalclosure assembly 5900 which is operably coupled to a distal closureassembly 6000 that is utilized to close and/or open the anvil 5810 ofthe surgical end effector 5500 as will be discussed in further detailbelow. In addition, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000includes a spine assembly 5250 that operably supports the proximalclosure assembly 5900 and is coupled to the surgical end effector 5500.In the illustrated arrangement, the spine assembly 5250 includes adistal end portion 5280 that has an opening 5281 therein for ease ofassembly. A spine cap 5283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening5281 after the various components have been assembled therein. Inassembled form, a proximal end portion 5253 of the spine assembly 5250is rotatably supported in the tool chassis 5210. In one arrangement, forexample, the proximal end of the proximal end portion 5253 of the spineassembly 5250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) that isconfigured to be supported within the tool chassis 5210. Sucharrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of the spine assembly 5250to the tool chassis 5210 such that the spine assembly 5250 may beselectively rotated about the shaft axis SA₃ relative to the toolchassis 5210. In particular, in one arrangement, for example, theproximal end portion 5253 of the spine assembly 5250 includes twodiametrically opposed lug seats 5254 (only one can be seen in FIG. 20)that are each configured to receive a corresponding nozzle lug (notshown) that extend inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 5242, 5244.Such arrangement facilitates rotation of the spine assembly 5250 aboutthe shaft axis SA₃ by rotating the actuator wheel portion 5246 of thenozzle assembly 5240.

Referring now to FIG. 21, the distal end portion 5280 of the spineassembly 5250 is attached to a distal frame segment 5286 that operablysupports the articulation lock 5400 therein. The spine assembly 5250 isconfigured to, one, slidably support a firing member assembly 6110therein and, two, slidably support a proximal closure tube 5910 whichextends around the spine assembly 5250. The spine assembly 5250 can alsobe configured to slidably support a first articulation driver 5310 and asecond articulation driver 5320. As can be seen in FIG. 21, the distalframe segment 5286 is pivotally coupled to a proximal end 5610 of theelongate channel 5602. In one arrangement, for example, the distal endof the distal frame segment 5286 has a pivot pin 5288 formed thereon.The pivot pin 5288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivothole 5611 formed in the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongatechannel 5602. The pivot pin 5288 defines an articulation axis AA₃ thatis transverse to the shaft axis SA₃. See FIG. 21. Such arrangementfacilitates pivotal travel (i.e., articulation) of the surgical endeffector 5500 about the articulation axis AA₃ relative to the spineassembly 5250. The distal frame segment 5286 is further configured tosupport the articulation lock 5400 therein.

In the illustrated arrangement, a distal end 5314 of the firstarticulation driver 5310 is formed with a loop 5316 that is adapted toreceive a first articulation pin 5618 therein that is formed on theproximal end portion 5610 of the elongate channel 5602. Similarly, adistal end 5324 of the second articulation driver 5320 has a loop 5326that is adapted to receive a second articulation pin 5619 therein thatis formed on the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongate channel 5602.In one arrangement, for example, the first articulation driver 5310further comprises a proximal rack of teeth 5315 that is in meshingengagement with an idler gear 5330 rotatably supported in the spineassembly 5250. Similarly the second articulation driver 5320 furthercomprises a proximal rack of teeth 5325 that is in meshing engagementwith the idler gear 5330. Thus, in such arrangement, movement of thefirst articulation driver 5310 in the distal direction DD will result inmovement of the second articulation driver 5320 in the proximaldirection PD. Movement of the first articulation driver 5310 in theproximal direction PD will result in the movement of the secondarticulation driver 5320 in the distal direction DD. Thus, such movementof the first and second articulation drivers 5310, 5320 will providesimultaneously pushing and pulling motions to the surgical end effector5500 to articulate the surgical end effector about the articulation axisAA₃.

The anvil 5810 in the illustrated example includes an anvil body 5812that terminates in anvil mounting portion 5820. The anvil mountingportion 5820 is movably supported on the elongate channel 5602 forselective pivotal and vertical travel relative thereto. In theillustrated arrangement, an anvil trunnion 5822 extends laterally out ofeach lateral side of the anvil mounting portion 5820 to be received in acorresponding “open-ended” vertical cradle 5613 formed in upstandingwalls 5612 of the proximal end portion 5610 of the elongate channel5602. Movement of the anvil 5810 relative to the elongate channel 5602is effectuated by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 5900and the distal closure assembly 6000. In the illustrated arrangement,the proximal closure assembly 5900 comprises the proximal closure tube5910 that has a proximal end 5912 and a distal end 5914. The proximalend 5912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 5940 that isslidably supported within the tool chassis 5210 such that it may beaxially moved relative thereto. In one form, the closure shuttle 5940includes a pair of proximally-protruding hooks 5942 that are configuredfor attachment to the transverse attachment pin 516 that is attached tothe closure linkage assembly 514 of the handle assembly 500. Theproximal end 5912 of the proximal closure tube 5910 is coupled to theclosure shuttle 5940 for relative rotation thereto. For example, aU-shaped connector 5944 is inserted into an annular slot 5916 in theproximal end 5912 and is retained within vertical slots 5946 in theclosure shuttle 5940. Such arrangement serves to attach the proximalclosure assembly 5900 to the closure shuttle 5940 for axial traveltherewith while enabling the proximal closure tube 5910 to rotaterelative to the closure shuttle 5940 about the shaft axis SA₃. As wasdiscussed above in connection with the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 1000, a closure spring (not shown) may extend over the proximalend 5912 of the proximal closure tube 5910 to bias the closure shuttle5940 in the proximal direction PD which can serve to pivot the closuretrigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (FIG. 2) into the unactuatedposition when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 isoperably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the above describedmanner.

As can be seen in FIG. 21, the distal end 5914 of the proximal closuretube 5910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 6000. The distalend 5914 includes upper and lower tangs 5917, 7918 that are configuredto be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distalclosure tube segment 6030. The distal closure tube segment 6030 includesan upper tang 6032 and a lower tang 6034 that protrude proximally from aproximal end thereof. An upper double pivot link 6060 pivotally couplesthe upper tangs 5917 and 6032 and a lower double pivot link 6064pivotally couples the lower tangs 5918 and 6034 together in theabove-described manner. The distal closure tube segment 6030 includes aninternal cam surface 6036 that is configured to cammingly engage ananvil cam surface 5821 on the anvil mounting portion 5820. The distaladvancement of the distal closure tube segment 6030 on the anvilmounting portion 5820 will result in closure or pivotal travel of theanvil 5810 towards the elongate channel 5602. In the illustratedarrangement, upstanding anvil tabs 5827 are formed on the anvil mountingportion 5820 and are configured to be contacted by two positive jawopening tabs 6038 that extend inwardly within the distal closure tubesegment 6030. Each positive jaw opening tab 6038 is configured to engagea corresponding one of the anvil tabs 5827 to pivot the anvil 5810 to anopen position when the distal closure tube segment 6030 is axially movedin the proximal direction PD.

In the illustrated arrangement, the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 5000 further includes a firing system generally designated as6100. In various instances, the firing system 6100 includes the firingmember assembly 6110 that is supported for axial travel within the spineassembly 5250. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing member assembly6110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 that isconfigured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 6130.The firing member assembly 6110 may also be referred to herein as a“second shaft” and/or a “second shaft assembly”. As can be seen in FIG.21, the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 may include alongitudinal slot 6124 in a distal end 6122 thereof which can beconfigured to receive a proximal end 6132 of the knife bar 6130. Thelongitudinal slot 6124 and the proximal end 6132 of the knife bar 6130can be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween andcan comprise a slip joint 6134. The slip joint 6134 can permit theintermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of the firing member assembly6110 to be moved to articulate the end effector 5500 without moving, orat least substantially moving, the knife bar 6130 as was discussedabove. In the illustrated arrangement, a proximal end 6127 of theintermediate firing shaft portion 6120 has a firing shaft attachment lug6128 formed thereon that is configured to be seated into an attachmentcradle (not shown) that is on the distal end of the longitudinallymovable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 withinthe handle assembly 500 as was discussed above. Such arrangementfacilitates the axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion6120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachmentconfigurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firingshaft portion to other firing drive arrangements (e.g., manuallyactuated, robotic, etc.).

Further to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 5000 can includea shifter assembly 6200 which can be configured to selectively andreleasably couple the first articulation driver 5310 to the firingmember assembly 6110 in the manner described above. In one form, theshifter assembly 6200 includes a lock collar, or lock sleeve 6210,positioned around the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of thefiring member assembly 6110 wherein the lock sleeve 6210 can be rotatedbetween an engaged position in which the lock sleeve 6210 couples thefirst articulation driver 5310 to the firing member assembly 6110 and adisengaged position in which the first articulation driver 5310 is notoperably coupled to the firing member assembly 6110. As was discussedabove, the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 of the firing memberassembly 6110 is formed with a drive notch 6126. The lock sleeve 6210comprises a cylindrical, or an at least substantially cylindrical, bodythat includes a longitudinal aperture that is configured to receive theintermediate firing shaft portion 6120 therethrough. The lock sleeve6210 can comprise diametrically-opposed, inwardly-facing lockprotrusions 6214, 6216 that, when the lock sleeve 6210 is in oneposition, are engagingly received within corresponding portions of thedrive notch 6126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 and, whenin another position, are not received within the drive notch 6126 tothereby permit relative axial motion between the lock sleeve 6210 andthe intermediate firing shaft 6120 as was discussed in further detailabove. The lock sleeve 6210 further includes a lock member 6218 that issized to be movably received within a notch 5319 in a proximal end ofthe first articulation driver 5310. When the lock sleeve 6210 is in itsengaged position, the lock protrusions 6214, 6216 are positioned withinthe drive notch 6126 in the intermediate firing shaft portion 6120 suchthat a distal pushing force and/or a proximal pulling force can betransmitted from the firing member assembly 6110 to the lock sleeve6210. Such axial pushing or pulling motion is then transmitted from thelock sleeve 6210 to the first articulation driver 5310. Axial movementof the first articulation driver 5310 results in the axial movement ofthe second articulation driver 5320 in an opposite direction to therebyarticulate the surgical end effector 5500.

As was discussed above, in the illustrated example, relative movement ofthe lock sleeve 6210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may becontrolled by the shifter assembly 6200 that interfaces with theproximal closure tube 5910 of the proximal closure assembly 5900. Theshifter assembly 6200 further includes a shifter key 6240 that isconfigured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to thekey groove 2217 illustrated in FIG. 8) formed in the outer perimeter ofthe lock sleeve 6210. Such arrangement enables the shifter key 6240 tomove axially with respect to the lock sleeve 6210. Operation of theshifter assembly 6200 may be identical to the operation of the shifterassembly 2200 which was described in further detail above and which willnot be repeated again for brevity. Further details, alternativearrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosedin Other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITHINDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, theas well as other disclosures that have been incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 5000 can comprise a slip ring assembly5230 which can be configured to conduct electrical power to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 5500 and/or communicate signals to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 5500, back to a microprocessor 560 in thehandle assembly 500 or robotic system controller, for example as wasdiscussed above. Further details concerning the slip ring assembly 5230and associated connectors may be found in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196 which haveeach been herein incorporated by reference in their respective entiretyas well as in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitledSTAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, now U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2014/0263552, which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

The illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 also employsa latch system 5220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 5000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500,for example. The latch system 5220 may be identical to the latch system1220 described in detail above. The knife bar 6130 may comprise alaminated beam structure that includes at least two beam layers. Suchbeam layers may comprise, for example, stainless steel bands that areinterconnected by, for example, welding or pinning together at theirproximal ends and/or at other locations along their length. Inalternative embodiments, the distal ends of the bands are not connectedtogether to allow the laminates or bands to splay relative to each otherwhen the end effector is articulated. Such arrangement permits the knifebar 6130 to be sufficiently flexible to accommodate articulation of theend effector. Various laminated knife bar arrangements are disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. As can also be seen in FIG.21, a firing shaft support assembly 6300 is employed to provide lateralsupport to the knife bar 6130 as it flexes to accommodate articulationof the surgical end effector 5500. Further details concerning theoperation of the firing shaft support assembly 6300 and alternativeknife bar support arrangements may be found in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKEREDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,220,entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLEEND EFFECTOR, which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir respective entireties.

As can also be seen in FIGS. 21 and 50, a firing member or knife member6140 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 6130. The firingmember 6140 is configured to operably interface with a sled assembly6150 that is operably supported within the body 5702 of the surgicalstaple/fastener cartridge 5700. The sled assembly 6150 is slidablydisplaceable within the surgical staple/fastener cartridge body 5702from a proximal starting position adjacent a proximal end 5704 of thecartridge body 5702 to an ending position adjacent a distal end 5706 ofthe cartridge body 5702. The cartridge body 5702 operably supportstherein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) that are aligned inrows on each side of a centrally disposed slot 5708. The centrallydisposed slot 5708 enables the firing member 6140 to pass therethroughand cut the tissue that is clamped between the anvil 5810 and the staplecartridge 5700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staplepockets that open through the upper deck surface of the cartridge body5702. Each of the staple drivers supports one or more surgicalstaple/fastener or fastener (not shown) thereon. The sled assemblyincludes a plurality of sloped or wedge-shaped cams 6152 wherein eachcam corresponds to a particular line of fasteners or drivers located ona side of the slot 5708.

In one exemplary form, the firing member 6140 comprises a body portion6142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 6144. See FIG. 50.The body portion 6142 protrudes through an elongate slot 5604 in theelongate channel 5602 and terminates in a foot member 6146 that extendslaterally on each side of the body portion 6142. As the firing member6140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge5700, the foot member 6146 rides within a passage 5622 in the elongatechannel 5602 that is located under the surgical staple/fastenercartridge 5700. The tissue cutting portion 6144 is disposed between adistally protruding top nose portion 6143. As can be further seen inFIGS. 21 and 50, the firing member 6140 may further include twolaterally extending top tabs, pins or anvil engagement features 6147. Asthe firing member 6140 is driven distally, a top portion of the bodyportion 6142 extends through a centrally disposed anvil slot 5814 andthe anvil engagement features 6147 ride on corresponding ledges 5816formed on each side of the anvil slot 5814. Further details concerningthe firing member 6140, sled assembly 6150, and their variousalternatives as well as examples of their operation will be discussed infurther detail below and may also be found in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITHINDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS. The interchangeablesurgical tool assembly 5000 may be operably coupled to the handleassembly 500 in the manner as described above with respect to theinterchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000.

Returning again to FIG. 1, as was discussed above, the surgical system10 illustrated in that Figure includes four interchangeable surgicaltool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000 that may each be effectivelyemployed with the same handle assembly 500 to perform different surgicalprocedures. Turning now to FIGS. 22-24, the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 7000 includes a surgical end effector 7500 that comprisesa first jaw 7600 and a second jaw 7800. In one arrangement, the firstjaw comprises an elongate channel 7602 that is configured to operablysupport a surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700 therein. The secondjaw 7800 comprises an anvil 7810 that is movably supported relative tothe elongate channel 7602. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly7000 includes an articulation system 7300 that comprises an articulationjoint 7302 and an articulation lock 7400 which can be configured toreleasably hold the surgical end effector 7500 in a desired articulatedposition relative to a shaft axis SA₄. Details regarding theconstruction and operation of the articulation lock 7400 as well asalternative lock configurations and operational details may be found inin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of whichis hereby incorporated by reference herein. Additional detailsconcerning the articulation lock 7400 and/or alternative articulationlock arrangements may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/019,196, filed Feb. 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT, the entiredisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

As can be seen in FIG. 24, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly7000 includes a tool frame assembly 7200 that comprises a tool chassis7210 that operably supports a nozzle assembly 7240 thereon. In one form,the nozzle assembly 7240 is comprised of nozzle portions 7242, 7244 aswell as an actuator wheel portion 7246 that is configured to be coupledto the assembled nozzle portions 7242, 7244 by snaps, lugs, screws etc.The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 includes a proximalclosure assembly 7900 which is operably coupled to a distal closureassembly 8000 that is utilized to close and/or open the anvil 7810 ofthe surgical end effector 7500 as will be discussed in further detailbelow. In addition, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000includes a spine assembly 7250 that operably supports the proximalclosure assembly 7900 and is coupled to the surgical end effector 3500.In the illustrated arrangement, the spine assembly 7250 includes adistal end portion 7280 that has an opening 7281 therein for ease ofassembly. A spine cap 7283 may be attached thereto to cover the opening7281 after the various components have been assembled therein. Inassembled form, a proximal end portion 7253 of the spine assembly 7250is rotatably supported in the tool chassis 7210. In one arrangement, forexample, the proximal end of the proximal end portion 7253 of the spineassembly 7250 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) that isconfigured to be supported within the tool chassis 7210. Sucharrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of the spine assembly 7250to the tool chassis 7210 such that the spine assembly 7250 may beselectively rotated about the shaft axis SA₄ relative to the toolchassis 7210. In particular, in one arrangement, for example, theproximal end portion 7253 of the spine assembly 7250 includes twodiametrically opposed lug seats 7254 (only one can be seen in FIG. 23)that are each configured to receive a corresponding nozzle lug (notshown) that extend inwardly from each of the nozzle portions 7242, 7244.Such arrangement facilitates rotation of the spine assembly 7250 aboutthe shaft axis SA₄ by rotating the actuator wheel portion 7246 of thenozzle assembly 7240.

Referring now to FIG. 24, the distal end portion 7280 of the spineassembly 7250 is attached to a distal frame segment 7286 that operablysupports the articulation lock 7400 therein. The spine assembly 7250 isconfigured to, one, slidably support a firing member assembly 8110therein and, two, slidably support a proximal closure tube 7910 whichextends around the spine assembly 7250. The spine assembly 7250 can alsobe configured to slidably support a proximal articulation driver 7310.As can be seen in FIG. 24, the distal frame segment 7286 is pivotallycoupled to the elongate channel 7602 by an end effector mountingassembly 7290. In one arrangement, for example, the distal end of thedistal frame segment 7286 has a pivot pin 7288 formed thereon. The pivotpin 7288 is adapted to be pivotally received within a pivot hole 7292formed in pivot base portion 7291 of the end effector mounting assembly7290. The end effector mounting assembly 7290 is attached to a proximalend portion 7610 of the elongate channel 7602 by a spring pin 7620 orother suitable member that is received within mounting holes 7611 in theproximal end portion 7610. The pivot pin 7288 defines an articulationaxis AA₄ that is transverse to the shaft axis SA₄. See FIG. 24. Sucharrangement facilitates pivotal travel (i.e., articulation) of thesurgical end effector 7500 about the articulation axis AA₄ relative tothe spine assembly 7250. The distal frame segment 7286 is furtherconfigured to support the articulation lock 7400 therein. Variousarticulation lock arrangements may be employed. At least one form ofarticulation lock 7400 is described in further detail in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. Patent ApplicationPublication No. 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Additional details concerning thearticulation lock may also be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/019,196, filed Feb. 9, 2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT.

In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 7500 is electivelyarticulatable about the articulation axis AA₄ by the articulation system7300. In one form, the articulation system 7300 includes the proximalarticulation driver 7310 that operably interfaces with the articulationlock 7400. The articulation lock 7400 includes an articulation frame7402 that is adapted to operably engage a drive pin 7293 on the pivotbase portion 7291 of the end effector mounting assembly 7290. Inaddition, a cross link 7294 may be linked to the drive pin 7293 andarticulation frame 7402 to assist articulation of the surgical endeffector 7500. As indicated above, further details regarding theoperation of the articulation lock 7400 and the articulation frame 7402may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Further detailsregarding the end effector mounting assembly and cross link 7294 may befound in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, filed Feb. 9,2016, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONARRANGEMENTS, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. As further described therein, as well as in otherdisclosures incorporated by reference herein, axial movement of proximalarticulation driver 7310 will result in the engagement/disengagement ofthe articulation lock 7400 to thereby apply articulation motions to theelongate channel 7602 and thereby cause the surgical end effector 7500to articulate about the articulation axis AA₄ relative to the spineassembly 7250.

The anvil 7810 in the illustrated example includes an anvil body 7812that terminates in anvil mounting portion 7820. The anvil mountingportion 7820 is movably supported on the elongate channel 7602 forselective pivotal and axial travel relative thereto. In the illustratedarrangement, an anvil trunnion 7822 extends laterally out of eachlateral side of the anvil mounting portion 7820 to be received in acorresponding “kidney-shaped” opening 7613 formed in upstanding walls7612 of the proximal end portion 7610 of the elongate channel 7602.Movement of the anvil 7810 relative to the elongate channel 7602 iseffectuated by axial movement of the proximal closure assembly 7900 andthe distal closure assembly 8000. In the illustrated arrangement, theproximal closure assembly 7900 comprises the proximal closure tube 7910that has a proximal end 7912 and a distal end 7914. The proximal end7912 is rotatably supported in a closure shuttle 7940 that is slidablysupported within the tool chassis 7210 such that it may be axially movedrelative thereto. In one form, the closure shuttle 7940 includes a pairof proximally-protruding hooks 7942 that are configured for attachmentto the transverse attachment pin 516 that is attached to the closurelinkage assembly 514 of the handle assembly 500. The proximal end 7912of the proximal closure tube 7910 is coupled to the closure shuttle 7940for relative rotation thereto. For example, a U-shaped connector 7944 isinserted into an annular slot 7916 in the proximal end 7912 of theproximal closure tube 7910 and is retained within vertical slots 7946 inthe closure shuttle 7940. Such arrangement serves to attach the proximalclosure assembly 7900 to the closure shuttle 7940 for axial traveltherewith while enabling the proximal closure tube 7910 to rotaterelative to the closure shuttle 7940 about the shaft axis SA₄. As wasdiscussed above in connection with the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 1000, a closure spring (not shown) may extend over the proximalend 7912 of the proximal closure tube 7910 to bias the closure shuttle7940 in the proximal direction PD which can serve to pivot the closuretrigger 512 on the handle assembly 500 (FIG. 2) into the unactuatedposition when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 isoperably coupled to the handle assembly 500 in the above describedmanner.

As can be seen in FIG. 24, the distal end 7914 of the proximal closuretube 3910 is attached to the distal closure assembly 8000. The distalend 7914 includes upper and lower tangs 7917, 7918 that are configuredto be movably coupled to an end effector closure sleeve or distalclosure tube segment 8030. The distal closure tube segment 8030 includesan upper tang 8032 and a lower tang 8034 that protrude proximally from aproximal end thereof. An upper double pivot link 8060 pivotally couplesthe upper tangs 7917 and 8032 and a lower double pivot link 8064pivotally couples the lower tangs 7918 and 8034 together in theabove-described manner. The distal advancement of the distal closuretube segment 8030 on the anvil mounting portion 7820 will result inclosure or pivotal travel of the anvil 7810 towards the elongate channel7602. In the illustrated arrangement, an upstanding anvil tab 7824 isformed on the anvil mounting portion 7820 and extends into ahorseshoe-shaped opening 8038. Opening 8038 defines an opening tab 8039configured to operably interface with the anvil tab 7824 as the distalclosure tube is retracted in the distal direction. Such interactionbetween the opening tab 8039 and the anvil tab 7824 applies an openingmotion to the anvil 7810 to thereby cause the anvil 7810 to move to anopen position.

In the illustrated arrangement, the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 7000 further includes a firing system generally designated as8100. In various instances, the firing system 8100 includes the firingmember assembly 8110 that is supported for axial travel within the spineassembly 7250. In the illustrated embodiment, the firing member assembly8110 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 that isconfigured for attachment to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 8130.The firing member assembly 8110 may also be referred to herein as a“second shaft” and/or a “second shaft assembly”. As can be seen in FIG.24, the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 may include alongitudinal slot 8124 in a distal end 8122 thereof which can beconfigured to receive a proximal end 8132 of the knife bar 8130. Thelongitudinal slot 8124 and the proximal end 8132 of the knife bar 8130can be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween andcan comprise a slip joint 8134. The slip joint 8134 can permit theintermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of the firing member assembly8110 to be moved to articulate the end effector 7500 without moving, orat least substantially moving, the knife bar 8130 as was discussedabove. In the illustrated arrangement, a proximal end 8127 of theintermediate firing shaft portion 8120 has a firing shaft attachment lug8128 formed thereon that is configured to be seated into an attachmentcradle (not shown) that is on the distal end of the longitudinallymovable drive member (not shown) of the firing drive system 530 withinthe handle assembly 500 as was discussed above. Such arrangementfacilitates the axial movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion8120 upon actuation of the firing drive system 530. Other attachmentconfigurations may also be employed to couple the intermediate firingshaft portion to other firing drive arrangements (e.g., manuallyactuated, robotic, etc.).

Further to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 7000 can includea shifter assembly 8200 which can be configured to selectively andreleasably couple the proximal articulation driver 7310 to the firingmember assembly 8110 in the manner described above. In one form, theshifter assembly 8200 includes a lock collar, or lock sleeve 8210,positioned around the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of thefiring member assembly 8110 wherein the lock sleeve 8210 can be rotatedbetween an engaged position in which the lock sleeve 8210 couples theproximal articulation driver 7310 to the firing member assembly 8110 anda disengaged position in which the proximal articulation driver 7310 isnot operably coupled to the firing member assembly 8110. As wasdiscussed above, the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120 of thefiring member assembly 8110 is formed with a drive notch 8126. The locksleeve 8210 comprises a cylindrical, or an at least substantiallycylindrical, body that includes a longitudinal aperture that isconfigured to receive the intermediate firing shaft portion 8120therethrough. The lock sleeve 8210 can comprise diametrically-opposed,inwardly-facing lock protrusions 8214, 8216 that, when the lock sleeve8210 is in one position, are engagingly received within correspondingportions of the drive notch 8126 in the intermediate firing shaftportion 8120 and, when in another position, are not received within thedrive notch 8126 to thereby permit relative axial motion between thelock sleeve 8210 and the intermediate firing shaft 8120 as was discussedin further detail above. The lock sleeve 8210 further includes a lockmember 8218 that is sized to be movably received within a notch 7319 ina proximal end of the proximal articulation driver 7310. When the locksleeve 8210 is in its engaged position, the lock protrusions 8214, 8216are positioned within the drive notch 7126 in the intermediate firingshaft portion 8120 such that a distal pushing force and/or a proximalpulling force can be transmitted from the firing member assembly 8110 tothe lock sleeve 8210. Such axial pushing or pulling motion is thentransmitted from the lock sleeve 8210 to the proximal articulationdriver 7310 to thereby articulate the surgical end effector 7500.

As was discussed above, in the illustrated example, relative movement ofthe lock sleeve 8210 between its engaged and disengaged positions may becontrolled by the shifter assembly 8200 that interfaces with theproximal closure tube 7910 of the proximal closure assembly 7900. Theshifter assembly 8200 further includes a shifter key 8240 that isconfigured to be slidably received within a key groove (similar to thekey groove 2217 illustrated in FIG. 8) formed in the outer perimeter ofthe lock sleeve 8210. Such arrangement enables the shifter key 8240 tomove axially with respect to the lock sleeve 8210. Operation of theshifter assembly 8200 may be identical to the operation of the shifterassembly 2200 which was described in further detail above and which willnot be repeated again for brevity. Further details, alternativearrangements and drive configurations that may be employed are disclosedin Other arrangements that may be employed are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITHINDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196, theas well as other disclosures that have been incorporated herein.

The interchangeable tool assembly 7000 can comprise a slip ring assembly7230 which can be configured to conduct electrical power to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 7500 and/or communicate signals to and/or fromthe surgical end effector 7500, back to a microprocessor 560 in thehandle assembly 500 or robotic system controller, for example as wasdiscussed above. Further details concerning the slip ring assembly 7230and associated connectors may be found in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 13/803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2014/0263541, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,196 which haveeach been herein incorporated by reference in their respective entiretyas well as in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitledSTAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, now U.S. PatentApplication Publication No. 2014/0263552, which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein in its entirety.

The illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 also employsa latch system 7220 for removably coupling the interchangeable surgicaltool assembly 7000 to the handle frame 506 of the handle assembly 500,for example. The latch system 7220 may be identical to the latch system1220 described in detail above. The knife bar 8130 may comprise alaminated beam structure that includes at least two beam layers. Suchbeam layers may comprise, for example, stainless steel bands that areinterconnected by, for example, welding or pinning together at theirproximal ends and/or at other locations along their length. Inalternative embodiments, the distal ends of the bands are not connectedtogether to allow the laminates or bands to splay relative to each otherwhen the end effector is articulated. Such arrangement permits the knifebar 8130 to be sufficiently flexible to accommodate articulation of theend effector. Various laminated knife bar arrangements are disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. As can also be seen in FIG.24, a firing shaft support assembly 8300 is employed to provide lateralsupport to the knife bar 8130 as it flexes to accommodate articulationof the surgical end effector 7500. Further details concerning theoperation of the firing shaft support assembly 8300 and alternativeknife bar support arrangements may be found in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 15/019,245, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKEREDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/019,220,entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLEEND EFFECTOR, which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir respective entireties.

As can also be seen in FIG. 24, a firing member or knife member 8140 isattached to the distal end of the knife bar 8130. The firing member 8140is configured to operably interface with a sled assembly 8150 that isoperably supported within the body 7702 of the surgical staple/fastenercartridge 7700. See FIG. 51. The sled assembly 8150 is slidablydisplaceable within the surgical staple/fastener cartridge body 7702from a proximal starting position adjacent a proximal end 7704 of thecartridge body 7702 to an ending position adjacent a distal end 7706 ofthe cartridge body 7702. The cartridge body 7702 operably supportstherein a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) that are aligned inrows on each side of a centrally disposed slot 7708. The centrallydisposed slot 7708 enables the firing member 8140 to pass therethroughand cut the tissue that is clamped between the anvil 7810 and the staplecartridge 7700. The drivers are associated with corresponding staplepockets that open through the upper deck surface of the cartridge body7702. Each of the staple drivers supports one or more surgicalstaple/fastener or fastener (not shown) thereon. The sled assemblyincludes a plurality of sloped or wedge-shaped cams wherein each camcorresponds to a particular line of fasteners or drivers located on aside of the slot 7708.

In one exemplary form, the firing member 8140 comprises a body portion8142 that supports a knife or tissue cutting portion 8144. See FIG. 51.The body portion 8142 protrudes through an elongate slot 7604 in theelongate channel 7602 and terminates in a foot member 8146 that extendslaterally on each side of the body portion 8142. As the firing member8140 is driven distally through the surgical staple/fastener cartridge7700, the foot member 8146 rides within a passage 7622 in the elongatechannel 7602 that is below the staple cartridge 7700. The tissue cuttingportion 8144 is disposed between a distally protruding top nose portion8143. As can be further seen in FIG. 24, the firing member 8140 mayfurther include two laterally extending top tabs, pins or anvilengagement features 8147. As the firing member 8140 is driven distally,a top portion of the body portion 8142 extends through a centrallydisposed anvil slot 7814 and the anvil engagement features 8147 ride oncorresponding ledges 7816 formed on each side of the anvil slot 7814.Further details concerning the firing member 8140, sled assembly 8150,and their various alternatives as well as examples of their operationwill be discussed in further detail below and may also be found in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitled SURGICALSTAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRINGSYSTEMS. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 may be operablycoupled to the handle assembly 500 in the manner as described above withrespect to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000.

As can be appreciated from the foregoing descriptions, theinterchangeable surgical tool assemblies described herein may beactuated by the same handle assembly, robotic system or other automatedactuation system. All of the above described interchangeable surgicaltool assemblies comprise surgical cutting and fastening instruments thathave somewhat similar closure and firing components. However, theclosure and firing systems and components of each of these toolassemblies have differences that may seem somewhat subtle at firstblush, but, as will be further discussed below, such differences canresult in significant improvements in the material composition, design,construction, manufacture and use of such tools. As will become apparentas the present Detailed Description proceeds, the interchangeablesurgical tool assembly 1000 contains subtle design differences whencompared to the other interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 3000,5000, 7000 described herein that can result in significant improvementsin the overall functionality, reliability, and cost of the toolassembly. Moreover, we have discovered that, in some cases, asynergistic effect exists between certain component arrangementsemployed by the tool assembly 1000 which can further enhance the overallefficiency and functionality of the tool assembly 1000. In order tobetter understand these differences and improvements, certain componentsand systems of each of the tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000, 7000 willnow be further described and compared to each other below.

For example, each of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000,3000, 5000, 7000 must be able to apply a sufficient amount of closureforce to cause the jaws to sufficiently clamp the target tissue so as topermit the firing member to properly treat the clamped tissue uponactuation of the firing drive system. For example, in the illustratedassemblies, the respective closure system components must be able toclamp the anvil and surgical staple/fastener cartridge onto the targettissue to enable the firing member to properly sever the clamped tissueand eject lines of staples or fasteners on each side of the tissue cutline. Depending upon the thickness and composition of the target tissue,significant closure forces and firing forces are often required. Thus,the closure and firing drive systems in the handle assembly housing,robotic housing, etc. must be able to generate such forces of sufficientmagnitude (through the use of a motor or manually generated motion, forexample) to sufficiently close the jaws and fire the firing memberthrough the clamped tissue. Such procedures further require that thecomponents within the interchangeable shaft assemblies to besufficiently robust to accommodate the magnitudes of the forces beingtransmitted therethrough. In the past, the magnitudes of such forcesoften dictated that the closure system components, as well as the firingsystem components, be fabricated from metal or other suitable materialswith relatively large cross-sectional thicknesses and of substantialreinforced configurations.

The tissue loads encountered during the clamping process typicallycreate a large “moment” about the anvil pivot axis PA. The closuresystem components must be designed to counteract such moment. In variouscircumstances, for example, a moment about the anvil pivot axis PA inthe opposite direction is needed. To maximize the efficiency of thesystem (e.g., minimize the magnitude of the force applied), the largestpractical moment arm is desired. However, as will be further discussedbelow, there are trade-offs with other design variables when seeking toestablish a large counter moment. For example, there is a balancebetween the distance from the articulation joint to the first staple andthe length of the moment arm for a closure system where the firing andclosing systems are separate and distinct. The larger the moment arm ofthe closure system, the more efficiently it handles clamp loads andtissue compression. However, the distance between the articulation jointand the first staple may have a large impact on the access of thesurgical end effector as it is positioned into tight spaces within alaparoscopic environment.

FIGS. 25-32 illustrate exemplary moment arms for each of the surgicalend effectors 1500, 3500, 5500, 7500. Turning first to FIG. 25, as wasdescribed above, the anvil trunnions 1822 extend laterally out of eachlateral side of the anvil mounting portion 1820 to be received in acorresponding trunnion cradle 1614 formed in the upstanding walls 1612of the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongate channel 1602. The anviltrunnions 1822 are pivotally retained in their corresponding trunnioncradle 1614 by the channel cap or anvil retainer 1630. The channel cap1630 includes a pair of attachment lugs 1636 that are configured to beretainingly received within corresponding lug grooves or notches 1616formed in the upstanding walls 1612 of the proximal end portion 1610 ofthe elongate channel 1602. Such arrangement constrains the anvil 1810 toonly pivot about the pivot axis PA₁ (see FIG. 3). Under sucharrangement, the anvil mounting portion 1820 does not move axially orvertically. As the distal closure tube segment 2030 is advanced in thedistal direction DD under a horizontal closure force F_(H1) (FIG. 26),the interaction between an internal cam surface 2036 on the distalclosure tube segment 2030 and an anvil cam surface 1821 on the anvilmounting portion 1820 results in the application of a closure forceF_(C1) to the anvil cam surface 1821. The closure force F_(C1) comprisesthe resultant force of the horizontal closure force F_(H1) and avertical closure force F_(V1) and is essentially “normal to” orperpendicular to the cam surface 1821 on the anvil mounting portion1820. See FIG. 26. M_(A1) represents a closure moment arm from the anvilpivot axis PA₁ (coincident with the center of anvil trunnions 1822) tothe point of contact between the internal cam surface 2036 on the distalclosure tube segment 2030 and the anvil cam surface 1821 on the anvilmounting portion 1820 when the anvil 1810 has been pivoted to the fullyclosed position. In one example, the closure moment arm M_(A1) may beapproximately 0.415 inches, for example. M_(A1)×F_(C1)=a closure momentC_(M1) that is applied to the anvil mounting portion 1820.

To ensure that the each side of the tissue cut line is fastened withstaples or fasteners extending from the proximal end to the distal endof the tissue cutline, a proximal end portion 1818 of the anvil body1812 is formed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locatingfeatures 1830 that extend downwardly from each lateral side of the anvilbody 1812 (only one tissue stop formation 1830 may be seen in FIGS. 25and 26). When the anvil 1810 is opened to receive the target tissuebetween the underside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, thedownwardly extending tissue stop 1830 serve to prevent the target tissuefrom extending proximally past the proximal most staples/fasteners inthe surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700. If the tissue were toextend proximally beyond the proximal most staples/fasteners, thatportion of tissue may be severed by the firing member during the firingprocess and may not be fastened which may lead to catastrophic results.The downwardly extending tissue stops 1830 may prevent this fromhappening. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 26, for example, theproximal-most staple/fastener pockets 1720 are shown in phantom linesrelative to the tissue stops 1830. As can be seen in that Figure, thetissue stop 1830 has a downwardly extending portion 1832 and a chamferedportion 1834. The target tissue is contacted by the portions 1832, 1834to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond theproximal most staples/fasteners that are supported in the proximal moststaple/fastener pockets 1720 in the staple/fastener cartridge body 1702.

Returning again to FIG. 25, as the anvil 1810 is pivoted closed onto thetarget tissue (not shown) that is positioned between the underside ortissue contacting surface 1813 of the anvil body 1812, the tissueapplies tissue forces T_(F1) to the underside 1813 of the anvil body1812 which cause the anvil 1810 to experience a tissue counter momentC_(T1) that must be overcome by the closure moment C_(M1) established bythe closure system components. The example depicted in FIG. 25illustrates equally distributed tissue forces T_(F1) on the anvil 1810and a tissue moment arm M_(T1) established by the clamped tissue (theclamped tissue is not shown in FIG. 25 for clarity purposes). As can beseen in that Figure, in that example, the tissue moment arm M_(T1) isconsiderably longer than the closure moment arm M_(A1) (i.e.,M_(T1)>M_(A1)).

Turning next to FIGS. 27 and 28, as was described above, the anviltrunnions 3822 of the anvil 3810 of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 3000 extend laterally out of each lateral side of the anvilmounting portion 3820 to be received in corresponding trunnion holes3613 formed in the upstanding walls 3612 of the proximal end portion3610 of the elongate channel 3602. Such arrangement constrains the anvil3810 to only pivot about the anvil pivot axis PA₂ (see FIG. 18). Undersuch arrangement, the anvil mounting portion 3820 does not move axiallyor vertically. As the distal closure tube segment 4030 is advanced inthe distal direction DD under a horizontal closure force F_(H2) (FIG.28), the interaction between an internal cam surface 4036 on the distalclosure tube segment 4030 and an anvil cam surface 3821 on the anvilmounting portion 3820 results in the application of a closure forceF_(C2) to the anvil cam surface 3821. The closure force F_(C2) comprisesthe resultant force of the horizontal closure force F_(H2) and avertical closure force F_(V2) and is essentially “normal to” orperpendicular to the anvil cam surface 3821 on the anvil mountingportion 3820. See FIG. 28. M_(A2) represents the closure moment arm fromthe anvil pivot axis PA₂ (center of anvil trunnions 3822) to the pointof contact between the internal cam surface 4036 on the distal closuretube 4030 and the anvil cam surface 3821 on the anvil mounting portion3820 when the anvil 3810 has been pivoted to the fully closed position.In one example, closure moment arm M_(A2) may be approximately 0.539inches, for example. M_(A2)×F_(C2)=a closure moment C_(M2) that isapplied to the anvil mounting portion 3820.

In the example depicted in FIGS. 27 and 28, the anvil body 3812 isformed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locating features 3830that extend downwardly from each lateral side of the anvil body 3812(only one tissue stop formation 3830 may be seen in FIGS. 27 and 28).When the anvil 3810 is opened to receive the target tissue between theunderside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, the downwardlyextending tissue stop formations 3830 serve to prevent the target tissuefrom extending proximally past the proximal most staples/fasteners inthe surgical staple/fastener/fastener cartridge 3700. In the embodimentdepicted in FIG. 28, for example, the proximal-most staple pockets 3720are shown in phantom lines relative to the tissue stop formations 3830.As can be seen in that Figure, the tissue stop formation 3830 has adownwardly extending portion 3832 and a chamfered portion 3834. Thetarget tissue is contacted by the portions 3832, 3834 to prevent thetarget tissue from extending proximally beyond the proximal moststaples/fasteners that are supported in the proximal-moststaple/fastener pockets 3720 in the staple/fastener cartridge body 3702.

Returning again to FIG. 27, as the anvil 3810 is pivoted closed onto thetarget tissue (not shown) that is positioned between the underside ortissue contacting surface 3813 of the anvil body 3812, the tissueapplies tissue forces T_(F2) to the underside 3813 of the anvil body3812 which cause the anvil 3810 to experience a tissue counter momentC_(T2) that must be overcome by the closure moment C_(M2) established bythe closure system components. The example depicted FIG. 27 illustratesequally distributed tissue forces T_(F2) on the anvil 3810 and a tissuemoment arm M_(T2) established by the clamped tissue (the clamped tissueis not shown in FIG. 27 for clarity purposes). As can be seen in thatFigure, in that example, the tissue moment arm M_(T2) is considerablylonger than the closure moment arm M_(A2) (i.e., M_(T2)>M_(A2)).

Turning next to FIGS. 29 and 30, as was described above, the anviltrunnions 5822 of the anvil 5810 of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 5000 extend laterally out of each lateral side of the anvilmounting portion 5820 to be received in the corresponding “open-ended”vertical cradle 5613 formed in the upstanding walls 5612 of the proximalend portion 5610 of the elongate channel 5602. In this arrangement, theanvil trunnions 5822 are free to pivot within their respective cradles5613 as the distal closure tube segment 6030 cammingly contacts theanvil cam surface 5821 on the anvil mounting portion 5820. Under sucharrangement, the anvil 5810 does not move axially, but the anviltrunnions 5822 are free to move vertically (arrow V) within theirrespective cradles 5613. As the distal closure tube segment 6030 isadvanced in the distal direction DD under the horizontal closure forceF_(H3) (FIG. 30), the interaction between an internal cam surface 6036on the distal closure tube segment 6030 and the anvil cam surface 5821on the anvil mounting portion 5820 results in the application of aclosure force F_(C3) to the anvil cam surface 5821. The closure forceF_(C3) comprises the resultant force of the horizontal closure forceF_(H3) and a vertical closure force F_(V3) and is essentially “normalto” or perpendicular to the anvil cam surface 5821 on the anvil mountingportion 5820. See FIG. 30. M_(A3) represents the closure moment arm fromthe anvil pivot axis PA₃ (coincident with the center of anvil trunnions5822) to the point of contact between the internal cam surface 6036 onthe distal closure tube 6030 and the anvil cam surface 5821 on the anvilmounting portion 5820 when the anvil 5810 has been pivoted to the closedposition. In one example, closure moment arm M_(A3) may be approximately0.502 inches, for example. M_(A3)×F_(C3)=a closure moment C_(M3) that isapplied to the anvil mounting portion 5820.

In the example depicted in FIGS. 29 and 30, the anvil body 5812 isformed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locator features 5830that extend downwardly from each lateral side of the anvil body 5812(only one tissue stop formation 5830 may be seen in FIGS. 29 and 30).When the anvil 5810 is opened to receive the target tissue between theunderside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, the downwardlyextending tissue stop formations 5830 serve to prevent the target tissuefrom extending proximally past the proximal most staples/fasteners inthe surgical staple/fastener cartridge 5700. In the embodiment depictedin FIG. 29, for example, the proximal-most staple/fastener pockets 5720are shown in phantom lines relative to the tissue stop formations 5830.As can be seen in that Figure, the tissue stop formation 5830 has adownwardly extending portion 5832 and a chamfered portion 5834. Thetarget tissue is contacted by the portions 5832, 5834 to prevent thetarget tissue from extending proximally beyond the proximal moststaples/fasteners that are supported in the proximal-moststaple/fastener pockets 5720 in the staple/fastener cartridge body 5702.

Returning again to FIG. 29, as the anvil 5810 is pivoted closed onto thetarget tissue (not shown) that is positioned between the underside 5813of the anvil body 5812, the tissue applies tissue forces T_(F3) to theunderside or tissue contacting surface 5813 of the anvil body 5812 whichcause the anvil 5810 to experience a tissue counter moment C_(T3) thatmust be overcome by the closure moment C_(M3) established by the closuresystem components. The example depicted in FIG. 29 illustrates equallydistributed tissue forces T_(F3) on the anvil 5810 and a tissue momentarm M_(T3) established by the clamped tissue (the clamped tissue is notshown in FIG. 29 for clarity purposes). As can be seen in that Figure,in that example, the tissue moment arm M_(T3) is considerably longerthan the closure moment arm M_(A3) (i.e., M_(T3)>M_(A3)).

Turning now to FIGS. 31 and 32, as was described above, the anviltrunnions 7822 of the anvil 7810 of the interchangeable surgical toolassembly 7000 extend laterally out of each lateral side of the anvilmounting portion 7820 to be received in the corresponding“kidney-shaped” opening 7613 formed in the upstanding walls 7612 of theproximal end portion 7610 of the elongate channel 7602. When the anvil7810 is in a “fully” open position, the anvil trunnions 7822 maygenerally be located in the bottom portion 7613B of the kidney slot7613. The anvil 7810 can be moved to a closed position by distallyadvancing the distal closure tube segment 8030 in the distal directionDD so that the internal cam surface 8036 on the distal end 8035 of thedistal closure tube segment 8030 rides up an anvil cam surface 7821 thatis formed on the anvil mounting portion 7820 of the anvil 7810. As theinternal cam surface 8036 on the distal end 8035 of the distal closuretube segment 8030 is distally advanced along the anvil cam surface 7821on the anvil mounting portion 7820 under the horizontal closure forceF_(H4) (FIG. 32), the distal closure tube segment 8030 causes the bodyportion 7812 of the anvil 7810 to pivot and move axially relative to thesurgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700 as the anvil trunnions 7822 moveupwardly and distally in the kidney slots 7613. When the distal closuretube segment 8030 reaches the end of its closure stroke, the distal end8035 of the distal closure tube segment 8030 abuts/contacts an abruptanvil ledge 7823 and serves to position the anvil 7810 so that theforming pockets (not shown) in the underside or tissue contactingsurface 7813 of the body portion 7812 are properly aligned with thestaples/fasteners in the staple/fastener cartridge 7700. The anvil ledge7823 is defined between the anvil cam surface 7821 on the anvil mountingportion 7820 and the anvil body portion 7812. Stated another way, inthis arrangement, the anvil cam surface 7821 does not extend to anoutermost surface 7817 of the anvil body 7812. When in that position,the anvil trunnions 7822 are located at top portions 7613T of the kidneyslots 7613. M_(A4) represents the moment arm from the anvil pivot axisPA₄ (coincident with the center of the anvil trunnions 7822) when thetrunnions 7822 are located in the top portions 7613T of the kidney slots7613 as shown. In one example, the moment arm M_(A4) may beapproximately 0.184 inches, for example. M_(A4)×F_(H4)=a closure momentC_(M4) that is applied to the anvil mounting portion 7820.

In the example depicted in FIGS. 31 and 32, the anvil body 7812 isformed with two tissue stop formations or tissue locator formations 7830that extend downwardly from each lateral side of the anvil body 7812(only one tissue stop formation 7830 may be seen in FIGS. 31 and 32).When the anvil 7810 is opened to receive the target tissue between theunderside of the anvil and the cartridge deck surface, the downwardlyextending tissue stop formations 7830 serve to prevent the target tissuefrom extending proximally past the proximal most staples/fasteners inthe surgical staple/fastener cartridge 7700. In the embodiment depictedin FIG. 31, for example, the proximal most staple/fastener pockets 7720are shown in phantom lines relative to the tissue stop formations 7830.As can be seen in that Figure, the tissue stop formation 7830 has adownwardly extending portion 7832 and a chamfered portion 7834. Thetarget tissue is contacted by the portions 7832, 7834 to prevent thetarget tissue from extending proximally beyond the proximal moststaples/fasteners that are supported in the proximal moststaple/fastener pockets 7720 in the staple/fastener cartridge body 7702.

Returning again to FIG. 31, as the anvil 7810 is pivoted closed onto thetarget tissue (not shown) that is positioned between the underside ortissue contacting surface 7813 of the anvil body portion 7812, thetissue applies tissue forces T_(F4) to the underside 7813 of the anvilbody 7812 which cause the anvil 7810 to experience a tissue countermoment C_(T4) that must be overcome by a closure moment C_(M4)established by the closure system components. The example depicted FIG.31 illustrates equally distributed tissue forces T_(F4) on the anvil7810 and a tissue moment arm M_(T4) established by the clamped tissue(the clamped tissue is not shown in FIG. 31 for clarity purposes). Ascan be seen in that Figure, in that example, the tissue moment armM_(T4) is considerably longer than the closure moment arm M_(A4) (i.e.,M_(T4)>M_(A4)).

The illustrated exemplary interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000,3000, 5000, 7000 comprise surgical stapling devices that employ“separate and distinct” closure and firing systems. That is, the closuresystem employed to close the jaws is separately actuatable from thefiring system used to drive the firing member through the surgicalstaple/fastener cartridge to cut and fasten tissue. These separate anddistinct closure and firing systems may be distinguishable from thosesurgical stapling instruments wherein actuation of the firing system toadvance the firing member is required to move the jaws from an openposition to a closed position. As will be discussed in further detailbelow, however, the firing members of some of the interchangeablesurgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may also apply additionalclosure motions to the anvil as the firing member is fired (i.e.,distally advanced through the surgical end effector). As can be seenfrom reference to FIGS. 25-32, in the illustrated examples,M_(A2)>M_(A3)>M_(A1)>M_(A4). FIGS. 25, 27, 29 and 31 also illustrate theresistive forces established by the tissue during the closure process.T_(F) represents the force generated by the tissue when the tissue isclamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge. These forcesestablish a “counter” moment C_(T) that is applied to the anvil aboutthe point/area where the distal closure tube segment is in cammingcontact with the anvil cam surface on the anvil mounting portion. Inthese illustrated examples, the tissue moment arm for each surgicalinstrument (tool assembly) is generally larger than the closure momentarm for that instrument. It may be appreciated from the differencebetween a typical tissue moment arm encountered when clamping tissuebetween the anvil and the surgical staple/fastener cartridge and theclosure moment arm of the instrument results in the need for sufficientclosure forces to be applied by the distal closure tube segment to theanvil in order to sufficiently close the anvil onto the tissue. Thus,the distal closure tube segment must be sufficiently strong and robustto handle the considerable stresses formed therein during the closureprocess. To establish a stress state in the distal closure tube segmentthat more closely resembles a “hoop stress” state instead of a “ringstress” state, the sidewalls of the distal closure tube segment may bethickened so as to contact the side walls and anvil mounting portions ofthe corresponding elongate channel. Such arrangement may also addstrength to the overall hoop-like structure of the tube. Maximizing thethickness on the anvil side of the distal closure tube segment may alsoimprove the strength of the tube segment (hoop) while allowing room fora large bearing or cam surface to cam the anvil downward towards thecartridge. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,911, entitledSURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING ANDFIRING SYSTEMS discloses several distal closure tube segmentconfigurations which may be employed in the various interchangeablesurgical tool assemblies disclosed herein.

The forgoing discussion and comparisons may illustrate that closuresystem designs that have large closure moment arms may lead to improvedefficiencies of the closure system components and can reduce the amountof closure forces that are required to achieve full anvil closure ontothe tissue. However, as noted above, there may be tradeoffs with otherdesign variables when attempting to maximize the closure moment arm. Forexample, another desirable attribute relates to “jaw aperture”. “Jawaperture” may refer to a distance J_(A) which is measured from themiddle of a distalmost staple or fastener center along a line that isperpendicular to the corresponding distalmost staple forming pocket onthe underside or tissue contact surface of the anvil body portion. FIG.33 illustrates the jaw aperture J_(A1) for the surgical end effector1500. In the illustrated example, the distalmost staple/fastener pockets1730 contain the distalmost staples or fasteners (not shown) therein.Each distalmost staple or fastener corresponds to a distalmoststaple/fastener forming pocket 1815 (shown in phantom in FIG. 33) thatis formed in the underside or tissue contacting surface 1813 of theanvil body 1812. The distance J_(A1) between the distalmoststaple/fastener pocket 1730 and the corresponding distalmoststaple/fastener forming pocket 1815 is the “jaw aperture” for thesurgical end effector 1500. In at least one embodiment, for example,J_(A1) is approximately 1.207 inches. FIG. 34 illustrates the jawaperture J_(A2) for the surgical end effector 3500. In the illustratedexample, the distalmost staple/fastener pockets 3730 contain thedistalmost staples or fasteners (not shown) therein. Each distalmoststaple or fastener corresponds to a distalmost staple/fastener formingpocket 3815 that is formed in the underside or tissue contact surface3813 of the anvil body 3812. The distance J_(A2) between the distalmoststaple/fastener pocket 3730 and the corresponding distalmoststaple/fastener forming pocket 3815 is the “jaw aperture” for thesurgical end effector 3500. In at least one embodiment, for example,J_(A2) is approximately 0.781 inches. FIG. 35 illustrates the jawaperture J_(A3) for the surgical end effector 5500. In the illustratedexample, the distalmost staple/fastener pockets 5730 contain thedistalmost staples/fasteners (not shown therein). Each distalmoststaple/fastener corresponds to a distalmost staple/fastener formingpocket 5815 that is formed in the underside or tissue contact surface5813 of the anvil body 5812. The distance J_(A3) between the distalmoststaple/fastener pocket 5730 and the corresponding distalmoststaple/fastener forming pocket 5815 is the “jaw aperture” for thesurgical end effector 5500. In at least one embodiment, for example,J_(A3) is approximately 0.793 inches. FIG. 36 illustrates the jawaperture J_(A4) for the surgical end effector 7500. In the illustratedexample, the distalmost staple/fastener pockets 7730 contain thedistalmost staples or fasteners (not shown) therein. Each distalmoststaple or fastener corresponds to a distalmost staple/fastener formingpocket 7815 that is formed in the underside or tissue contact surface7813 of the anvil body 7812. The distance J_(A4) between the distalmoststaple/fastener pocket 7730 and the corresponding distalmoststaple/fastener forming pocket 7815 is the “jaw aperture” for thesurgical end effector 7500. In at least one embodiment, for example,J_(A4) is approximately 0.717 inches. Thus, for these examples,J_(A1)>J_(A3)>J_(A2)>J_(A4). As such, comparatively, surgical endeffector 1500 has the greatest jaw aperture.

In those surgical end effector designs that employ separate and distinctclosure and firing systems that utilize an axially movable closure ringor distal closure tube segment such as the examples described above, theinterrelationships between the anvil or jaw pivot axis P_(A) and thedistal end of the distal closure tube segment as well as the robustnessof the anvil mounting portion may determine the magnitude of the jawaperture that is attainable for each specific end effector design. Theseinterrelationships may be better appreciated from reference to FIG. 37,for example. FIG. 37 depicts a surgical end effector 1500R that employsan anvil 1810R that has an anvil mounting portion 1820R that is shown insolid lines. The anvil mounting portion 1820R includes anvil trunnions1822R that define a reference pivot axis P_(AR) about which the anvilmounting portion 1820R may pivot relative to an elongate channel 1602R.The surgical end effector 1500R also employs a distal closure tubesegment 2030R that has a distal end 2035R that is configured tocammingly contact the anvil mounting portion 1820R in the variousmanners discussed above. A surgical staple/fastener cartridge 1700R issupported in the elongate channel 1602R and has a cartridge deck surfaceor tissue contact surface 1710R. FIG. 37 depicts a distance D_(P)between the reference pivot axis P_(AR) and the distal end 2035R of thedistal closure tube segment 2030R. FIG. 37 illustrates the anvil 1810Rin solid lines. The anvil body 1812R is in its maximum open positionwhen the distal closure tube segment 2030R is in its proximal moststarting position relative to the anvil mounting portion 1820R. Themaximum aperture angle APA_(R) for that configuration is approximatelyten degrees, for example. This aperture angle APA_(R) is typical formany end effector arrangements. In another end effector arrangement, theaperture angle is 12.25 degrees. In one arrangement, for example, D_(P)may be approximately 0.200 inches. To attain a larger aperture angleAPA_(R1) of, for example, twenty-two degrees, if the relationshipbetween the distal end 2035R of the distal closure tube segment 2030Rand the reference pivot axis P_(AR) remains unchanged, then across-sectional width M_(w) of an anvil mounting portion 1820R₁ mustundesirably be decreased. The anvil 1810R₁ is illustrated in phantomlines. As can be seen in that Figure, an abrupt ledge must be formedbetween the anvil body 1812R₁ and the anvil mounting portion 1820R₁ suchthat the cross-sectional width thereof is reduced. The aperture angleAPA_(R1) is measured from the underside 1813R₁ of the anvil body 1812R₁and the deck surface 1710R of the surgical staple/fastener cartridge1700R. Such reduction in robustness of the anvil mounting portion of theanvil may lead to reduced anvil reliability and is less desirable thananvils that have anvil mounting portions with larger cross-sectionalprofiles.

Referring now to FIGS. 38 and 39, increases in jaw aperture (or apertureangle) may be more easily achieved as the pivot or pivot axis PA movescloser to the distal end of the starting or proximal position of thedistal closure tube segment. FIG. 38 illustrates a surgical end effector1500′ that is substantially similar to surgical end effector 1500,except for the location of the pivot axis PA′ relative to the distal end2035 of the distal closure tube segment 2030. As can be seen in thatFigure, the distance between the pivot axis PA′ and the distal end 2035of the distal closure tube segment 2030 when the distal closure tubesegment 2030 is in its proximal-most starting position is represented byDP′ and the aperture angle is APA. Stated another way, when the distalclosure tube segment 2030 is in its starting position that correspondswith the fully open position of the anvil 1810, the distal end 2035thereof is on a reference plane RF that is perpendicular to said shaftaxis SA. The distance between the pivot axis PA′ and the reference planeRF′ measured along a line that is perpendicular to the reference planeRF′ and extends through the pivot axis PA′ is DP′. In at least onearrangement, DP′ is approximately 0.200 inches and the aperture angleAPA may be approximately 10°.

FIG. 38 illustrates the aperture angle APA of a surgical end effector1500′ with a distance DP′ between the reference pivot axis PA′ and thedistal end 2035 of the distal closure tube segment 2030. Turning next toFIG. 39, as can be seen in that Figure, the distance DP between thepivot axis PA and the reference plane RF upon which the distal end 2035of the distal closure tube segment 2030 is located when the distalclosure tube segment 2030 is in its proximal most starting position isless than distance DP′ and the aperture angle APA₁ is greater than APA.For example, in at least one embodiment, the distance DP isapproximately 0.090 inches and the aperture angle APA₁ is approximatelytwenty two degrees. Thus, by moving the pivot axis PA closer to thedistal end of the distal closure tube segment when the distal closuretube segment is in its proximal most starting position, the jaw aperturemay be significantly increased without the need to reduce thecross-sectional width of the anvil mounting position. This may representa significant improvement over other surgical end effector arrangements.In various circumstances, the center of the anvil trunnions 1822 mayideally be located between 0.010-0.060 inches from the distal end 2035of the distal closure tube segment 2030 when the distal closure tubesegment is in the starting (proximal most) position. A maximum distancefor large jaw aperture applications may be, for example, 0.090 inches.As can also be seen in FIG. 39, when the anvil 1810 is in its fully openposition as shown, the downwardly extending portion 1832 of the tissuestop 1830 generally stops at the staple cartridge deck surface 1710 toprevent any proximal movement of the target tissue during clamping.

FIGS. 40 and 41 illustrate tissue stop or tissue locator arrangements1830 employed on one form of the surgical end effector 1500. Asindicated above, the tissue stops 1830 comprise a downwardly extendingportion 1832 and a chamfered portion 1834. The downwardly extendingportion 1832 comprises a distal edge 1833 that terminates in a distalcorner portion 1835. FIG. 40 illustrates the anvil 1810 in its fullyopen position. The underside 1813 of the anvil body 1812 is positionedat an aperture angle APA₁. In at least one arrangement, the apertureangle APA₁ is greater than 12.25 degrees (12.25°) and may be as large aseighteen degrees (18°). When in that fully open position, the surgicalend effector 1500 may further have a proximal aperture P_(APP1) that inat least one arrangement may be approximately 0.254 inches, for example.The proximal aperture defines how much tissue can be positioned betweenthe proximal portions of the jaws (anvil and cartridge). A largeproximal aperture may be most advantageous, for example, when cuttingand fastening lung tissue which may be partially inflated when beingintroduced between the anvil and cartridge. The proximal aperture may bemeasured from the center of the proximal most fastener pocket or pocketpair directly vertical to the underside or tissue contact surface on theanvil body.

When the anvil 1810 is in the fully opened position as shown in FIG. 40,the distal corner 1835 does not extend above the cartridge deck surface1710 so as to prevent tissue from moving proximal to the proximal moststaples in the proximal most staple pockets 1720. In at least oneembodiment, an upstanding channel stop portion 1619 may extend upwardlyfrom the side walls of the elongate channel 1602 so as to coincide witheach corresponding tissue stop 1830 to further prevent any proximalinfiltration of tissue between the tissue stop 1830 and the channel stopportion 1619. FIG. 41 illustrates the anvil 1810 in a fully closedposition. When in that position, the distal edges 1833 of the tissuestops 1830 are approximately aligned or coincident with the locations ofthe proximal most staples/fasteners in the staple/fastener cartridge1700. The distance from the articulation axis AA₁ to the proximal moststaples/fasteners is identified as T_(SD1). In one arrangement, T_(SD1)is approximately 1.044 inches, for example. When the anvil 1810 is fullyclosed, the tissue stops 1830 may be sized and shaped relative to theproximal end portion 1610 of the elongate channel 1602 so as tofacilitate easy insertion through a correspondingly sized standardtrocar. In at least one example, the tissue stops 1830 of the anvil 1810are sized and shaped relative to the elongate channel 1602 so as topermit the surgical end effector 1500 to be inserted through aconventional 12 mm trocar.

FIGS. 42 and 43 illustrate tissue stop arrangements 3830 employed on oneform of the surgical end effector 3500. As indicated above, the tissuestops 3830 comprise a downwardly extending portion 3832 and a chamferedportion 3834. The downwardly extending portion 3832 comprises a distaledge 3833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 3835. FIG. 42illustrates the anvil 3810 in its fully open position. The underside3813 of the anvil body 3812 is positioned at an aperture angle APA₂. Inat least one arrangement, the aperture angle APA₂ is approximatelythirteen and one half degrees (13.5°). When in that fully open position,the surgical end effector 3500 may further have a proximal apertureP_(APP2) that in at least one arrangement may be approximately 0.242inches, for example. When the anvil 3810 is in the fully opened positionas shown in FIG. 42, the distal corner 3835 does not extend above thecartridge deck surface 3710 so as to prevent tissue from moving proximalto the proximal most staples/fasteners in the proximal moststaple/fastener pockets 3720. FIG. 43 illustrates the anvil 3810 in afully closed position. When in that position, the distal edges 3833 ofthe tissue stops 3830 are approximately aligned or coincident with thelocations of the proximal most staples/fasteners in the staple/fastenercartridge 3700. The distance from the articulation axis AA₂ to theproximal most staples/fasteners is identified as T_(SD2). In onearrangement, T_(SD2) is approximately 1.318 inches, for example.

FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate tissue stop arrangements 5830 employed on oneform of the surgical end effector 5500. As indicated above, the tissuestops 5830 comprise a downwardly extending portion 5832 and a chamferedportion 5834. The downwardly extending portion 5832 comprises a distaledge 5833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 5835. FIG. 44illustrates the anvil 5810 in its fully open position. The underside5813 of the anvil body 5812 is positioned at an aperture angle APA₃. Inat least one arrangement, the aperture angle APA₃ is approximately eightdegrees (8°). When in that fully open position, the surgical endeffector 5500 may further have a proximal aperture P_(APP3) that in atleast one arrangement may be approximately 0.226 inches, for example.When the anvil 5810 is in the fully opened position as shown in FIG. 44,the distal corner 3835 extends slightly above the cartridge deck surface5710. FIG. 45 illustrates the anvil 5810 in a fully closed position.When in that position, the distal edges 5833 of the tissue stops 5830are approximately aligned or coincident with the locations of theproximal most staples/fasteners in the staple/fastener cartridge 5700.The distance from the articulation axis AA₃ to the proximal moststaples/fasteners is identified as T_(SD3). In one arrangement, T_(SD3)is approximately 1.664 inches, for example.

FIGS. 46 and 47 illustrate tissue stop arrangements 7830 employed on oneform of the surgical end effector 7500. As indicated above, the tissuestops 7830 comprise a downwardly extending portion 7832 and a chamferedportion 7834. The downwardly extending portion 7832 comprises a distaledge 7833 that terminates in a distal corner portion 7835. FIG. 46illustrates the anvil 7810 in its fully open position. The underside7813 of the anvil body portion 7812 is positioned at an aperture angleAPA₄. In at least one arrangement, the aperture angle APA₄ isapproximately ten degrees (10°). When in that fully open position, thesurgical end effector 7500 may further have a proximal aperture P_(APP4)that in at least one arrangement may be approximately 0.188 inches, forexample. When the anvil 7810 is in the fully opened position as shown inFIG. 46, the distal corner portion 7835 extends slightly below thecartridge deck surface 7710 so as to prevent tissue from gettingproximal to the proximal most staples/fasteners in the proximal moststaple pockets 7720. FIG. 47 illustrates the anvil 7810 in a fullyclosed position. When in that position, the distal edges 7833 of thetissue stops 7830 is approximately aligned or coincident with thelocations of the proximal most staples/fasteners in the staple/fastenercartridge 7700. The distance from the articulation axis AA₄ to theproximal most staples/fasteners is identified as T_(SD4). In onearrangement, T_(SD4) is approximately 1.686 inches, for example.

In various circumstances, the relationships of the firing member to thearticulation axis AA as well as to the jaw pivot axis PA about which theanvil pivots may bear upon the length of the articulation jointarrangement. Of course, longer articulation joint arrangements maydetrimentally affect the end effector's maneuverability within tightspaces and also limit the magnitude of the jaw aperture that mayultimately be obtained by the end effector. FIG. 48 illustrates thesurgical end effector 1500 in a fully open position. That is, the anvil1810 has been pivoted to its fully open position and the firing member2140 is in its home or starting position. The distance between thedistal end of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 and thearticulation axis AA₁ is represented by AJD₁. In at least one example,AJD₁ is approximately 0.517 inches. By way of comparison and turning toFIG. 49, the distance AJD₂ from the distal end of each of the anvilengagement features 4147 and the articulation axis AA₂ is, in at leastone example, is approximately 0.744 inches. Referring to FIG. 50, thedistance AJD₃ from the distal end of each of the anvil engagementfeatures 6147 and the articulation axis AA₃ is, in at least one example,is approximately 1.045 inches. Turning to FIG. 51, the distance AJD₄from the distal end of each of the anvil engagement features 8147 andthe articulation axis AA₄ is, in at least one example, is approximately1.096 inches. Thus, as can be seen from this comparison, thearticulation joint arrangement (as measured by distances AJD₁, AJD₂,AJD₃, AJD₄) of the surgical end effector 1500 is more compact and thusmay be more maneuverable than the surgical end effectors 3500, 5500 and7500 in at least some surgical applications.

Another factor that may affect the length of the joint arrangementrelates to the location of the firing member relative to the anvil pivotaxis PA about which the anvil pivots. For example, FIG. 52 illustratesthe anvil 1810 of surgical end effector 1500 in its fully open position.When in that position, the firing member 2140 is in its parked or“starting position”. As can be seen in that Figure, one useful metricfor comparing the “compactness” of the articulation joint arrangement isthe proximal tab distance TD₁ between the proximal end 2149 of each ofthe top anvil engagement features 2147 and the anvil pivot axis PA₁. Inat least one preferred arrangement, the proximal tab distance TD₁ isapproximately greater than thirty-five percent (35%) of the overalllength TL₁ of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 when the anvil1810 is in a fully open position and the firing member 2140 is in itsproximal most or starting position. Stated another way, when the anvil1810 and the firing member 2140 are in the above described positions, atleast 35% of each of the anvil engagement features 2147 extendsproximally past the anvil pivot axis PA₁. FIG. 53 illustrates the endeffector 1500 with the anvil 1810 in the closed position and the firingmember 2140 in its proximal most or starting position. As can be seen inthat Figure, at least 35% of each of the anvil engagement features 2147extends proximally past the anvil pivot axis PA₁.

FIG. 54 illustrates the position of the firing member 4140 of thesurgical end effector 3500 when the anvil 3810 is in its fully openposition and the firing member 4140 is in its proximal most or startingposition. As can be seen in that Figure, each of the anvil engagementfeatures 4147 are completely distal to the anvil pivot axis PA₂ therebyresulting in a longer articulation joint arrangement. Thus, the distanceTD₂, is the distal distance between the proximal ends 4149 of the anvilengagement features 4147 and the anvil pivot axis PA₂. FIG. 55illustrates the position of the firing member 6140 of the surgical endeffector 5500 when the anvil 5810 is in its fully open position and thefiring member 6140 is in its proximal most or starting position. As canbe seen in that Figure, each of the anvil engagement features 6147 arecompletely distal to the anvil pivot axis PA₃ thereby resulting in alonger articulation joint arrangement. Thus, the distance TD₃, is thedistal distance between the proximal ends 6149 of the anvil engagementfeatures 6147 and the anvil pivot axis PA₃. FIG. 56 illustrates theposition of the firing member 8140 of the surgical end effector 7500when the anvil 7810 is in its fully open position and the firing member8140 is in its proximal-most or starting position. As can be seen inthat Figure, each of the anvil engagement features 8147 are completelydistal to the anvil pivot axis PA₄ thereby resulting in a longerarticulation joint arrangement. Thus, the distance TD₄, is the distaldistance between the proximal ends 8149 of the anvil engagement features8147 and the anvil pivot axis PA₄. For comparison purposes, the surgicalend effector 1500 is the only surgical end effector wherein a portion ofthe anvil engagement features on the firing member extend proximallypast the anvil pivot axis when the firing member is in its proximal mostor starting position. The anvil engagement features of each of thefiring members of the surgical end effectors 3500, 5500 and 7500 arecompletely distal to their respective anvil pivot axes when the firingmembers are in their proximal most or starting position. Taking thiscomparison further, for example, the surgical end effector 1500 is theonly surgical end effector wherein at least thirty-five percent (35%) ofthe anvil engagement features reside between the anvil pivot axis andthe articulation axis when the firing member is in its starting positionand the anvil is fully opened. Similar comparisons may be drawn fromcomparing the same distances between the location of the lower channelengagement features on the firing member to the jaw pivot axis when thefiring member is in its proximal most starting position.

Another metric that may be used to assess the compactness of thearticulation joint arrangement may comprise comparing the ratio betweenthe distance from the articulation axis to the distal end of the anvilengagement features on the firing member (distances AJD₁, AJD₂, AJD₃,AJD₄-FIGS. 48-51) relative to the distance from the articulation axis tothe distal edge of the tissue stops or the proximal most staple/fastener(distances TSD₁, TSD₂, TSD₃, TSD₄-FIGS. 41, 43, 45, 47) for each endeffector. For example, in a preferred arrangement, AJD/TSD<0.500. Theratio of AJD/TSD may be referred to herein as the “compactness ratio” ofthat particular surgical end effector. In one arrangement, for example,for end effector 1500, AJD₁/TSD₁=0.517 inches/1.044 inches=0.495. In oneillustrated example for end effector 3500, AJD₂/TSD₂=0.744 inches/1.318inches=0.564. In one illustrated example for end effector 5500,AJD₃/TSD₃=1.045 inches/1.664 inches=0.628. In one illustratedarrangement, AJD₄/TSD₄=1.096 inches/1.686 inches=0.650. Thus, in atleast one preferred arrangement wherein the articulation jointarrangement is the most compact, has the largest jaw aperture and is themost maneuverable, the ratio between the distance from the articulationaxis to the proximal end of the anvil engagement features on the firingmember and the distance from the articulation axis to the distal edge ofthe tissue stops or the proximal most staple/fastener is approximatelyless than 0.500.

FIGS. 57-61 illustrate a progressive closure arrangement for moving theanvil 1810 of the surgical end effector 1500 from a fully open positionto a closed position and then to an over closed position. FIGS. 57 and58 illustrate the anvil 1810 in a closed position. In both of thoseFigures, the distal closure tube segment 2030 has been advanced in thedistal direction DD to its fully closed position. As was discussedabove, the interaction between an internal cam surface 2036 on thedistal closure tube segment 2030 and an anvil cam surface 1821 on theanvil mounting portion 1820 causes the anvil 1810 to pivot to the closedposition. As can be seen in FIG. 58, the staple forming underside ortissue contacting surface 1813 of the anvil body 1812 may be relativelyparallel and spaced relative to the cartridge deck surface 1710 of thesurgical staple/fastener cartridge. When in that initial closedposition, the firing member 2140 is in its starting position as can beseen in FIG. 57. When in that position, the anvil engagement features2147 of the firing member 2140 have not engaged the anvil 1810 but arein substantial horizontal alignment with the ledges 1816 formed in theanvil 1810. In at least one arrangement, a ramp segment 1829 is formedproximal to each of the horizontal anvil ledges 1816. FIG. 59illustrates the position of the firing member 2140 after it has beendistally advanced to a point wherein the anvil engagement features 2147have initially engaged the horizontal anvil ledges 1816 on the anvil1810 and FIG. 61 illustrates the position of the firing member 2140 andthe anvil 1810 such that the anvil engagement features are in fullengagement with the anvil ledges 1816 to apply an “overclosure” force tothe anvil 1810 as the firing member 2140 continues to be distallyadvanced. In at least one arrangement as illustrated in FIG. 61, forexample, when the anvil 1810 is in the over closed position (with notissue being clamped between the anvil and the cartridge), the distalportion of the anvil 1810 will contact with the cartridge deck surface1710. As a result of such configuration, the force required to distallyadvance the firing member from its starting position to its endingposition within the end effector may generally be less than othersurgical end effector arrangements that do not employ such progressiveclosure arrangements.

FIG. 62 illustrates the anvil 1810 of the surgical end effector 1500 ina fully opened position. As was discussed above, each of the anviltrunnions 1822 are received in a corresponding trunnion cradle 1614 thatis formed in the upstanding walls 1612 of the proximal end portion 1610of the elongate channel 1602. The anvil trunnions 1822 are pivotallyretained in their corresponding trunnion cradle 1614 by the channel capor anvil retainer 1630. The channel cap 1630 includes a pair ofattachment lugs 1636 that are configured to be retainingly receivedwithin corresponding lug grooves or notches 1616 formed in theupstanding walls 1612 of the proximal end portion 1610 of the elongatechannel 1602. During a portion of the closure stroke for the anvil 1810on thick tissue, counterforces established during the tissue clampingprocess seek to push the anvil trunnions 1822 out of their respectivetrunnion cradles 1614. The channel cap 1630 includes a pair of slot capportions 1632 that correspond to each trunnion cradle 1614. When thechannel cap 1630 is installed onto the proximal end portion 1610 of theelongate channel 1602, each slot cap portion 1632 serves to retain theanvil trunnions 1822 within their respective trunnion cradles 1614during the closure process. As can be seen in FIGS. 62 and 63, each slotcap portion 1632 may have an arcuate bottom portion 1638 that isconfigured to pivotally receive the corresponding anvil trunnion 1822.Each slot cap 1632 may have a wedge shape to completely block the openend of the trunnion cradles 1614. Such channel cap arrangement 1630 mayfacilitate ease of assembly of the anvil 1810 to the elongate channel1602. Once the anvil trunnions 1822 have been placed into theirrespective trunnion cradles 1614, the channel cap 1630 may then beinstalled as shown. In at least one arrangement, the distal closure tubesegment 2030 serves to retain the channel cap 1630 in position whichserves to prevent the anvil trunnions 1822 from moving vertically intheir respective trunnion cradles 1614 during closure as shown in FIG.63. In another arrangement, the attachment lugs 1636 may be frictionallyretained within their respective notches 1616 or otherwise be retainedtherein by adhesive or other fastening means.

The four interchangeable tool assemblies 1000, 3000, 5000 and 7000employ different jaw opening configurations to facilitate moving theanvil from a closed position to a fully open position. For example, thedistal closure tube segment 4030 of the interchangeable tool assembly3000 includes positive jaw or anvil opening features 4040 thatcorrespond to each of the sidewalls of the distal closure tube segment4030 and protrude inwardly therefrom. The positive anvil openingfeatures 4040 extend inwardly through corresponding openings in thetransitional sidewalls and may be welded to the distal closure tubesegment 4030. In this arrangement, the positive anvil opening featuresare axially aligned with each other and are configured to operablyinterface with corresponding opening ramps formed on the undersides ofthe anvil mounting portion 3820. When the anvil 3810 and the distalclosure tube segment 4030 are in their fully closed positions, each ofthe positive anvil opening features 4040 is located in a cavity that isestablished between the anvil opening ramps and the bottom portion ofthe elongate channel 3602. When in that position, the positive anvilopening features 4040 do not contact the anvil mounting portion 3820 orat least may not apply any significant opening motions or forcesthereto. When the distal closure tube segment 4030 is moved in theproximal direction, the anvil opening features 4040 are brought intocontact with the anvil opening ramps to cause the anvil 3810 to pivot toan open position. Further details regarding the positive anvil openingfeatures 4040 may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/385,911, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE/FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLYACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS.

With regard to the surgical end effector 5500 of tool assembly 5000, thedistal closure tube segment 6030 includes two inwardly extendingpositive anvil opening tabs 6038 that may be punched into the wall ofthe distal closure tube segment 6030. See FIG. 21. In the illustratedarrangement, the tabs 6038 are axially aligned with each other and areconfigured to contact corresponding upstanding anvil tails 5827 formedon the anvil mounting portion 5820. When the distal closure tube segment6030 is moved in the proximal direction, the anvil opening features 6038are brought into contact with the anvil tails 5827 to cause the anvil5810 to pivot to an open position.

With regard to the surgical end effector 7500 of the tool assembly 7000,a positive anvil opening motion is applied to the anvil 7810 by thedistal closure tube segment 8030 when the distal closure tube segment8030 is moved proximally. As was discussed above, an upstanding anviltab 7824 is formed on the anvil mounting portion 7820 and extends intothe horseshoe-shaped opening 8038 in the distal closure tube segment8030. See FIG. 24. Opening 8038 defines an opening tab 8039 that isconfigured to operably interface with the anvil tab 7824 as the distalclosure tube segment 8030 is retracted in the distal direction. Suchinteraction between the opening tab 8039 and the anvil tab 7824 appliesan opening motion to the anvil 7810 to thereby cause the anvil 7810 tomove to an open position.

With regard to surgical end effector 1500 of the interchangeable toolassembly 1000, in the illustrated example, the distal closure tubesegment 2030 employs two axially offset, proximal and distal positivejaw opening features 2040 and 2050 as illustrated in FIGS. 64-77. As canbe seen in FIGS. 64 and 65, the proximal positive jaw opening feature2040 is axially proximal to the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050by an axial offset distance AOF. In FIG. 65, the proximal positive jawopening feature 2040 is located on the right side (as viewed by a userof the tool assembly) of the shaft axis SA₁. FIGS. 66, 72 and 73illustrate the position of the proximal positive jaw opening feature2040 when the anvil 1810 is in the closed position. As can be mostparticularly seen in FIG. 66, when in that position, the proximalpositive jaw opening feature 2040 is in a right side or first relievedarea 1825 formed in the anvil mounting portion 1820. FIGS. 69, 72 and 73illustrate the position of the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050when the anvil 1810 is in the closed position. As can be mostparticularly seen in FIG. 69, when in that position, the distal positivejaw opening feature is in contact with a stepped portion 1823 of theanvil cam surface 1821.

To commence the opening process, the jaw closure system is actuated tomove the distal closure tube segment 2030 in the proximal direction PD.As the distal closure tube segment 2030 is moved in the proximaldirection PD, the proximal positive jaw opening feature 2040 contacts afirst or right side jaw opening cam surface 1826 and begins to apply ajaw opening motion to the anvil 1810. See FIGS. 67, 74 and 75. As can beseen in FIGS. 70, 74 and 75, during this proximal movement of the distalclosure tube segment 2030, the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050is axially movable within a second or left relief area 1840 formed inthe anvil mounting portion 1820. Thus, while the proximal positive jawopening feature 2040 is applying a first or initial opening motion tothe anvil mounting portion 1820, the distal positive jaw opening feature2050 is not applying any significant opening motion to the anvil 1810.Further proximal motion of the distal closure tube segment 2030 willresult in the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050 contacting a leftanvil open tab 1842 and the proximal positive jaw opening feature 2040disengaging the jaw opening cam surface 1826. Thus, the proximalpositive jaw opening feature 2040 has disengaged the anvil mountingportion 1820 and is not applying any further opening motion theretowhile the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050 is applying a secondjaw opening motion to the anvil mounting portion 1820 to pivot the anvil1810 to a fully open position illustrated in FIGS. 68, 71, 76 and 77.

FIG. 78 depicts the anvil or jaw opening process employed by theinterchangeable tool assembly 1000 in graphical form. As can be seen inthat Figure, the left or vertical axis of the graph represents theamount of jaw aperture from about 0° to about 22° (“anvil apertureangle”) and the bottom or horizontal axis represents the approximateproximal axial travel of the distal closure tube segment 2030 from aposition wherein the anvil is fully closed to a position wherein theanvil is fully open. As indicated above, the “anvil aperture angle” or“jaw aperture angle” may represent the angle between the cartridge decksurface or tissue contacting surface on the surgical fastener cartridgeor “first jaw” and the fastener forming surface or tissue contactingsurface on the anvil or “second jaw”. When the anvil is fully closed,the anvil aperture angle may be approximately 0°, for example. In theillustrated arrangement, the distal closure tube segment 2030 can moveproximally from a first position (1850 on the graph) that corresponds tothe fully closed position a proximal distance of, for example, about0.040 inches to a first intermediate position (1852 on the graph) beforethe proximal positive jaw opening feature 2040 begins to apply a firstjaw opening motion to the anvil 1810. As the distal closure tube segment2030 continues to move proximally from the first intermediate position1852 to a second intermediate position (1854 on the graph) a furtherproximal distance of, for example, about 0.040 inches to about 0.120inches, the proximal positive jaw opening feature 2040 moves the anvil1810 through an anvil aperture angle from 0° to about 10°. While thedistal closure tube segment 2030 continues to travel proximally from thesecond intermediate position 1854 to a third intermediate position (1856on the graph) a further proximal distance (from about 0.120 inches toabout 0.140 inches), the anvil remains at about a 10° anvil apertureangle. Further proximal movement of the distal closure tube segment 2030from the third intermediate position 1856 to a fourth intermediateposition (1858 on the graph) a proximal distance (from about 0.140inches to about 0.240 inches), the distal positive jaw opening feature2050 begins to apply a second jaw opening motion to the anvil 1810. Asthe distal closure tube segment 2030 continues to move proximally fromthe third intermediate position 1856 to a fourth intermediate position(1858 on the graph) a further proximal distance (from, for example,about 0.140 inches to about 0.240 inches), the distal positive jawopening feature 2050 moves the anvil 1810 relative to the elongatechannel 1602 such that the anvil aperture angle increases from about 10°to about 22°, for example. While the distal closure tube segment 2030continues to travel proximally from the fourth intermediate position1858 to a final proximal position (1860 on the graph) a further proximaldistance (from about 0.240 inches to about 0.260 inches, for example),the anvil 1810 remains at a fully open position with an anvil apertureangle of approximately 22°.

The closure process of the illustrated example of the interchangeabletool assembly 1000 may be understood from reference to FIGS. 67-69 and70-72, as well as FIG. 78. FIGS. 68 and 71 illustrate the anvil 1810 inits fully open position. As can be seen in those Figures, the proximalpositive jaw opening feature 2040 is out of contact with the anvilmounting portion 1820 and the distal positive jaw opening feature 2050is in contact with the left anvil open tab 1842. When the anvil closureprocess is commenced, the closure drive system is actuated to move thedistal closure tube segment 2030 in the distal direction DD. As thedistal closure tube segment moves from the final proximal position 1860to the fourth intermediate position 1858 (FIG. 78), the anvil 1810remains in its fully open position. Thus, once the closure process iscommenced, in at least one example, the distal closure tube segment 2030may move distally a first or initial predetermined axial closuredistance before the anvil 1810 begins to move. Stated another way, thedistal closure tube segment may move the first predetermined axialclosure distance before any closure motion is applied to the anvil 1810.In at least one example, the first or initial predetermined closuredistance may be approximately 0.020 inches. As the distal closure tubesegment 2030 continues to move distally through an intermediate axialclosure distance, the distal end 2035 of the distal closure tube segment2030 begins to contact the anvil cam surface 1821 on the anvil mountingportion 1820 (FIGS. 67 and 70) until the internal cam surface 2036 onthe distal closure tube segment 2030 begins to cammingly contact theanvil cam surface 1821. As the internal cam surface 2036 travels up theanvil cam surface 1821, the anvil 1810 is pivoted to the fully closedposition. The anvil cam surface 1821 and the internal cam surface 2036may be configured to permit further distal travel of the distal closuretube segment 2030 from, for example, first intermediate point orposition 1852 to the first position 1850 (FIG. 78). Thus, in at leastone example, the distal closure tube segment 2030 may move distally afinal predetermined axial closure distance during the closing processafter the anvil 1810 has attained its fully closed position. In at leastone example, the final predetermined axial closure distance may beapproximately 0.040 inches.

In those surgical stapling devices that employ a firing member assemblythat comprises a firing member that has a tissue cutting surface, it maybe desirable for the firing system and portions of the end effector tobe configured in such a way so as to prevent the inadvertent advancementof the firing member unless an unspent staple cartridge is properlysupported in the end effector. If, for example, no staple cartridge ispresent at all and the firing member is distally advanced through theend effector, the tissue would be severed, but not stapled. Similarly,if a spent staple cartridge (i.e., a staple cartridge wherein at leastsome of the staples have already been fired therefrom) is present in theend effector and the firing member is advanced, the tissue would besevered, but may not be completely stapled, if at all. It will beappreciated that such occurrences could lead to undesirable catastrophicresults during the surgical procedure. U.S. Pat. No. 6,988,649 entitledSURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT, U.S. Pat.No. 7,044,352 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLELOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING, U.S. Pat. No. 7,380,695entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISMFOR PREVENTION OF FIRING, U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2016-0367247-A1, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUTARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION WHEN A CARTRIDGE ISSPENT OR MISSING and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/385,958,entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTINGFIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENTeach disclose various firing member lockout arrangements. Each of thosereferences is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

Referring to FIGS. 60A-60I, there is shown a surgical end effector 9010that comprises a portion of a surgical tool assembly 9000 that comprisesa first jaw 9020 and a second jaw 9120. In the illustrated arrangement,for example, the first jaw 9020 comprises an elongate channel 9022 thatis configured to removably and operably support a surgical staplecartridge 9600 therein. The elongate channel 9022 is attached to anelongate shaft assembly 9300 of the surgical tool assembly. In thearrangement depicted in FIGS. 60C and 60D, for example, the elongatechannel 9022 is pivotally coupled to a spine assembly 9310 of theelongate shaft assembly 9300 for selective articulation relativethereto. See FIGS. 60D, 60E, 60H and 60I. The elongate shaft assembly9300 may define a shaft axis SA. The second jaw 9120 comprises an anvil9122 that is movably supported on the elongate channel 9022 and which ismovable between open and closed positions by the closure system 9400.The anvil 9122 includes an anvil body 9124 and an anvil mounting portion9126 that is pivotally supported for pivotal travel relative to theproximal end 9024 of the elongate channel 9022. The closure system 9400may include, for example, an axially movable distal closure tube segment9410 that is configured to cammingly engage a cam surface 9128 on theanvil mounting portion 9126 when the distal closure tube segment 9410 isaxially advanced in the distal direction DD. The distal closure tubesegment 9410 may also be configured to apply opening motions to theanvil mounting portion 9126 when the distal closure tube segment 9410 ismoved in the proximal direction PD. See FIGS. 60C and 60D.

The surgical tool assembly 9000 further includes a firing system 9500that, in the illustrated arrangement, comprises a firing member assembly9510 that is configured to receive firing motions from a firing controlsystem supported in a housing of a handheld control system or a roboticcontrol system, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, one form offiring member assembly 9510 comprises a first firing member element 9520that consists of a firing member body 9522 that supports a tissuecutting surface or blade 9524 thereon. The firing member body 9522 iscoupled to a firing bar or knife bar 9530 that operably interfaces withcorresponding portions of the firing system 9500 to receive the firingmotions from the firing control system. The firing member body 9522 mayinclude second jaw or anvil engagement features 9526 that may compriselaterally extending tab features configured to be received withincorresponding second jaw passages or slots 9125 in the anvil body 9124.In addition, the firing member body 9522 may further include first jawor channel engagement features or a foot 9528 that is configured to bereceived in corresponding first jaw passages or slots or openings 9023in the elongate channel 9022.

The staple cartridge 9600 comprises a cartridge body 9602. See FIGS. 60Hand 60I. The cartridge body 9602 includes a proximal end 9604, a distalend (not shown), and a deck 9606 extending between the proximal end andthe distal end. In use, the staple cartridge 9600 is positioned on afirst side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil 9122 is positionedon a second side of the tissue. The anvil 9122 is moved toward thestaple cartridge 9600 to compress and clamp the tissue against the deck9606. Thereafter, staples or fasteners removably stored in the cartridgebody 9602 can be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body 9602includes staple or fastener cavities (not shown) defined therein whereinstaples or fasteners (not shown) are removably stored in the staplecavities. The staple cavities may be arranged in longitudinal rows. Inone arrangement, for example, three rows of staple cavities arepositioned on a first side of a longitudinal slot and three rows ofstaple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinalslot. The longitudinal slot is configured to axially receive the firstfiring member element 9520 therethrough. Other arrangements ofstaple/fastener cavities and staples or fasteners may be possible.

The staples or fasteners are supported by staple drivers (not shown)that are movably supported in the cartridge body 9602. The drivers aremovable between a first, or unfired position, and a second, or fired,position to eject the staples or fasteners from the cavities. Thedrivers are retained in the cartridge body 9602 by a retainer (notshown) which extends around the bottom of the cartridge body 9602 andincludes resilient members configured to grip the cartridge body andhold the retainer to the cartridge body. The drivers are movable betweentheir unfired positions and their fired positions by a sled 9610. Thesled 9610 is movable between a proximal, or “unfired” position adjacentthe proximal end 9604 and a distal or “fired” position adjacent thedistal end (after firing). As can be seen in FIG. 60G, the sled 9610comprises a plurality of ramped or cam surfaces 9620 that are configuredto slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, and the staples orfasteners supported thereon, toward the anvil. An “unfired”, “unspent”,“fresh” or “new” staple cartridge 9600 means herein that the staplecartridge 9600 has all of its staples or fasteners in their“ready-to-be-fired positions”. When in that position, the sled assembly9610 is located in its starting or “unfired” position. The new staplecartridge 9600 is seated within the elongate channel 9022 and may beretained therein by snap features on the cartridge body 9602 that areconfigured to retainingly engage corresponding portions of the elongatechannel 9022. FIGS. 60G and 60H illustrate a portion of the surgical endeffector 9010 with a new or unfired surgical staple cartridge 9600seated therein. As can be seen in FIGS. 60G and 60H, the sled 9610 is inthe unfired position. To prevent the firing system 9500 from beingactivated and, more precisely, to prevent the first firing memberelement 9520 from being distally driven through the surgical endeffector 9010 unless an unfired or new surgical staple cartridge 9600has been properly seated within the elongate channel 9022, theillustrated surgical tool assembly 9000 employs a firing member lockoutsystem generally designated as 9700.

Referring now to FIGS. 60E and 60F, in one form, the firing memberlockout system 9700 comprises a second firing member element or tippableelement 9710 that comprises a sled engaging portion 9720. In theillustrated arrangement, the second firing member element 9710 ispivotally coupled to the firing member body 9522 by an attachment joint9713 in the form of, for example, a pivot member or members 9714 thatare pivotally received in corresponding pivot holes 9523 provided in thefiring member body 9522 for pivotal travel relative thereto about apivot axis PA that is transverse to the shaft axis SA. Such arrangementfacilitates pivotal travel of the second firing member element 9710relative to the firing member body 9522 between a locked position (FIG.60E) and an unlocked position (FIG. 60F). In the illustrated example,the firing member body 9522 comprises a distal surface 9525 that isapproximately perpendicular to the channel engagement features 9528 anda lockout surface 9527 that is angled relative to the distal surface9525. In addition, one or more support ramps 9529 are formed on thefiring member body 9522 that serve to define corresponding landingsurfaces 9531 for receiving the second firing member element 9710 whenin the locked configuration. See FIG. 60E.

As can be seen in FIG. 60F, when the second firing member element 9710is in the unlocked position, a space, generally indicated as 9724, isprovided between a proximal surface 9722 of the second firing memberelement 9710 and the distal surface 9525 of the firing member body 9522.Thus, when in the unlocked position, the proximal surface 9722 of thesecond firing member element 9710 is not in contact with the distalsurface 9525 of the firing member body 9522. Referring now to FIGS.60A-60D, the second firing member element 9710 further comprises atleast one lockout-engaging portion 9730 that includes an angled lock end9732 that is configured to engage a corresponding lock-out notch 9026that is formed in the elongate channel 9022 when the second firingmember element 9710 is in the locked position. In one embodiment, forexample, the second firing member element 9710 includes twolockout-engaging portions 9730. As can also be seen in FIGS. 60A-60D, alockout spring or biasing member 9740 is mounted in the proximal end9024 of the elongate channel 9022 and includes two spring arms 9742 thateach correspond to a lockout-engaging portion 9730. The spring arms 9742serve to bias the second firing member element 9710 into the lockedposition as shown in FIGS. 60B-60D.

Turning now to FIGS. 60G-60I, the sled 9610 comprises an unlockingportion 9630 that is configured to engage the sled engaging portion 9720on the second firing member element 9710 when the sled 9610 is in theunfired position. Such arrangement serves to pivot the second firingmember element 9710 into the unlocked position. When in the unlockedposition, the angled lock end 9732 of each lockout-engaging portion 9730is pivoted out of the corresponding lock-out notch 9026 in the elongatechannel 9022 so that the firing member assembly 9510 may be fired ordistally advanced through the staple cartridge. If the staple cartridgethat has been loaded into the elongate channel 9022 was previously firedor even partially fired, the sled 9610 will not be in the unfiredposition so as to pivot the second firing member element 9710 into theunlocked position. In such instance therefor, the clinician will beunable to distally advance or fire the firing member assembly 9510. Whenin the unlocked position, actuation of the firing system 9500 willresult in the distal travel of the firing member assembly 9510. Asindicated above, when the firing member assembly 9510 is drivendistally, the second firing member element 9710 is in contact with thefiring member body 9522 through the pivot members 9714. However, whenthe second firing member element 9710 is pivoted into the lockedposition (FIG. 60E), a portion of the proximal surface 9722 is inabutting contact with the angled lockout surface 9527 on the firingmember body 9522. In addition, as can be most particularly seen in FIGS.60E and 60F, the pivot hole 9523 in the firing member body 9522 is sizedrelative to the corresponding pivot member 9714 to provide clearance Ctherebetween so that the load is transferred through the second firingmember element directly to the firing member body 9522 and not throughthe pivot members 9714. As can be seen in FIG. 60E, the angled lockoutsurface 9527 facilitates pivotal travel of the sled engaging portion9720 into the locked position. When the second firing member element9720 is in the locked position, should the clinician inadvertently applya firing motion FM to the firing member assembly 9510 in the distaldirection DD, the engagement between the second firing member element9720 and the lock-out notch 9026 in the elongate channel 9022 willprevent the distal advancement of the firing member assembly 9510 andcause a resultant unlocking load force UL to be applied to the secondfiring member element 9720. This unlocking load force UL will be appliedto the angled lockout surface 9527 on the firing member body 9522 andwill not be applied to the pivot members 9714. Such arrangement avoidsloading or stressing the pivot members 9714 should the clinicianinadvertently attempt to advance the firing member assembly 9510 when inthe locked position. Thus, this configuration may prevent the pivotmembers 9714 from shearing off during such attempted advancement of thefiring member assembly 9510.

Thus, the foregoing firing member assembly 9510 and firing memberlockout assembly 9700 may provide several advantages. For example, aswas discussed above, the distal surface 9525 on the firing member body9522 carries the load during firing and avoids transferring such load tothe pivot members that attach the second firing member element 9710 tothe first firing member element 9520. When in the lockout state orlocked position, the load is carried by the angled lock ends 9732 on thelockout engaging portions 9730. Such arrangement also avoids the needfor the firing member assembly 9510 or more precisely the first firingmember element 9520 from moving vertically which may inadvertently leadto misalignment with the anvil and elongate channel when moved into anunlocked state for firing. Moreover, because the first firing memberelement 9520 does not move vertically, the anvil engagement features aswell as the channel engagement features may be advantageously shaped anddesigned to obtain desirable engagement with the anvil and channelduring firing. The design and shape of the firing member body may alsoafford a large surface area for attachment to the knife bar by, forexample, welding. For example, the distal end of the knife bar may beattached to the firing member body by a butt weld and a laser weld fromboth sides to interconnect the laminates forming the knife bar at thedistal end. Such weld configuration may be more longitudinally compactthan prior weld configurations and can lead to superior joint length.Other advantages may also be enjoyed from the foregoing firing memberand lockout system arrangements.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are motivatedby an electric motor; however, the surgical instrument systems describedherein can be motivated in any suitable manner. In various instances,the surgical instrument systems described herein can be motivated by amanually-operated trigger, for example. In certain instances, the motorsdisclosed herein may comprise a portion or portions of a roboticallycontrolled system. Moreover, any of the end effectors and/or toolassemblies disclosed herein can be utilized with a robotic surgicalinstrument system. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitledSURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535, for example, disclosesseveral examples of a robotic surgical instrument system in greaterdetail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described inconnection with the deployment and deformation of staples; however, theembodiments described herein are not so limited. Various embodiments areenvisioned which deploy fasteners other than staples, such as clamps ortacks, for example. Moreover, various embodiments are envisioned whichutilize any suitable means for sealing tissue. For instance, an endeffector in accordance with various embodiments can comprise electrodesconfigured to heat and seal the tissue. Also, for instance, an endeffector in accordance with certain embodiments can apply vibrationalenergy to seal the tissue.

EXAMPLES Example 1

A surgical instrument that comprises an elongate shaft assembly thatdefines a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to theelongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative theretoabout an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. Thesurgical end effector comprises a first end effector jaw that is coupledto an articulation joint that is coupled to the elongate shaft assembly.A second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw forselective pivotal travel relative thereto about a jaw pivot axis that istransverse to the shaft axis. One of the first and second end effectorjaws is configured to operably support therein a surgical fastenercartridge that comprises a proximal most fastener location. One of thefirst and second end effector jaws is movable between an open positionand a fully closed position by an axially movable closure member thatcomprises a closure member cam surface that is configured for cammingcontact with a jaw cam surface on one of the first and second effectorjaws. A first distance between the articulation axis and an area ofcamming contact between the closure member cam surface and the jaw camsurface divided by a second distance from the articulation axis to theproximal most fastener location is less than 0.5.

Example 2

The surgical instrument of Example 1, wherein the first distance betweenthe jaw pivot axis and the area of camming contact between the closurecam member surface and the jaw cam surface divided by the seconddistance from the articulation axis to the proximal fastener location isgreater than 0.2 and less than 0.5.

Example 3

The surgical instrument of Examples 1 or 2, wherein the surgicalfastener cartridge is supported in the first end effector jaw andwherein the second end effector jaw comprises an anvil comprising thejaw cam surface.

Example 4

The surgical instrument of Examples 1, 2 or 3, wherein the jaw pivotaxis is fixed.

Example 5

The surgical instrument of Example 3, wherein the anvil comprises atleast one tissue stop member comprising a distal tissue contact surfacethat corresponds to the proximal most fastener location when the anvilis in the fully closed position.

Example 6

The surgical instrument of Examples 3 or 5, wherein the anvil comprisesan anvil body and an anvil mounting portion that comprises the jaw camsurface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions that areconfigured to be pivotally supported in corresponding openings in thefirst end effector jaw.

Example 7

The surgical instrument of Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein theclosure member comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segmentcomprising the closure member cam surface.

Example 8

The surgical instrument of Example 7, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to thefirst end effector jaw and a proximal closure tube assembly that ismovably supported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and ispivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 9

The surgical instrument of Example 8, wherein the proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is configured toselectively apply axial closure and opening motions to the proximalclosure tube assembly.

Example 10

The surgical instrument of Example 9, wherein the closure system issupported by a handheld housing.

Example 11

The surgical instrument of Example 10, wherein the closure system issupported by a housing that operably interfaces with a roboticcontrolled actuator.

Example 12

A surgical instrument that comprises an elongate shaft assembly thatdefines a shaft axis and further comprises a surgical end effector thatis operably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly for selectivearticulation relative thereto about an articulation axis that istransverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector comprises anelongate channel that is coupled to an articulation joint that iscoupled to the elongate shaft assembly. The elongate channel isconfigured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge. Thesurgical fastener cartridge comprises a proximal most fastener location.The surgical end effector further comprises an anvil that is pivotallycoupled to the elongate channel for selective pivotal travel relativethereto about a fixed anvil pivot axis that is transverse to the shaftaxis. The anvil is movable between an open position and a fully closedposition by an axially movable closure member that comprises a closuremember cam surface that is configured for camming contact with an anvilcam surface on the anvil. A first distance between the articulation axisand an area of camming contact between the closure member cam surfaceand the cam surface divided by a second distance from the articulationaxis to the proximal most fastener location is less than 0.5.

Example 13

The surgical instrument of Example 12, wherein the first distancebetween the anvil pivot axis and the area of camming contact between theclosure member cam surface and the anvil cam surface divided by thesecond distance from the articulation axis to the proximal most fastenerlocation is greater than 0.2 and less than 0.5.

Example 14

The surgical instrument of Examples 12 or 13, wherein the anvilcomprises at least one tissue stop member that comprises a distal tissuecontact surface that corresponds to the proximal most fastener locationwhen the anvil is in the fully closed position.

Example 15

The surgical instrument of Examples 12, 13 or 14, wherein the anvilcomprises an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion that comprises theanvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions thatare configured to be pivotally supported in corresponding openings inthe elongate channel.

Example 16

The surgical instrument of Examples 12, 13, 14 or 15, wherein theclosure member comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segmentthat comprises the closure member cam surface.

Example 17

The surgical instrument of Example 16, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to theelongate channel. A proximal closure tube assembly is movably supportedfor axial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupledto the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 18

The surgical instrument of Example 17, wherein the proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is configured toselectively apply axial closure and opening motions to the proximalclosure tube assembly.

Example 19

The surgical instrument of Example 18, further comprising a firingmember that is operably supported for axial travel through the surgicalfastener cartridge upon application of axial firing motions thereto.

Example 20

A surgical system that comprises a housing that operably supports aclosure system therein. The surgical system further comprises aninterchangeable surgical tool assembly that comprises an elongate shaftassembly that is operably and removably couplable to the housing suchthat a proximal closure portion thereof is configured to receive axialclosure motions from the closure system. The elongate shaft assemblydefines a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to theelongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative theretoabout an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. Thesurgical end effector comprises a first end effector jaw that is coupledto an articulation joint that is coupled to the elongate shaft assembly.A second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effector jaw forselective pivotal travel relative thereto about a jaw pivot axis that istransverse to the shaft axis. One of the first and second end effectorjaws is configured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridgethat includes a proximal most fastener location. One of the first andsecond end effector jaws is movable between an open position and a fullyclosed position by an axially movable distal closure member that isoperably coupled to the proximal closure portion of the elongate shaftassembly. The distal closure member comprises a closure member camsurface that is configured for camming contact with a jaw cam surface onone of the first and second end effector jaws. A first distance betweenthe articulation axis and an area of camming contact between the closuremember cam surface and the jaw cam surface divided by a second distancefrom the articulation axis to the proximal most fastener location isless than 0.5.

Example 21

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate shaft assembly that definesa shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to theelongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative theretoabout an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. Thesurgical end effector also comprises a first end effector jaw that iscoupled to an articulation joint that is coupled to the elongate shaftassembly. A second end effector jaw is coupled to the first end effectorjaw for selective pivotal travel relative thereto about a jaw pivot axisthat is transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical instrument furthercomprises an axially movable firing member that comprises at least onejaw engagement feature that is configured to apply a closure motion tothe second end effector jaw as the axially movable firing member ismoved from a starting position to an end position within the first endeffector jaw. At least one jaw engagement feature is configured suchthat a portion thereof is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and thearticulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in thestarting position.

Example 22

The surgical instrument of Example 21, wherein the portion of at leastone jaw engagement feature is positioned between the jaw pivot axis andthe articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in thestarting position and the second end effector jaw is in a fully openedposition.

Example 23

The surgical instrument of Examples 21 or 22, wherein at least thirtyfive percent of each jaw engagement feature is located between the jawpivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firingmember is in the starting position.

Example 24

The surgical instrument of Example 22, wherein at least thirty-fivepercent of each jaw engagement feature is between the jaw pivot axis andthe articulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in thestarting position and the end effector second jaw is in a fully openedposition.

Example 25

The surgical instrument of Examples 21, 22, 23 or 24, further comprisingan axially movable closure member that is independently movable relativeto the axially movable firing member and is configured to selectivelyapply additional closure motions to the second end effector jaw.

Example 26

The surgical instrument of Example 25, wherein the axially movableclosure member comprises a closure member cam surface that is configuredfor camming contact with a jaw cam surface on the second end effectorjaw.

Example 27

The surgical instrument of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 or 26, whereinthe axially movable firing member comprises a tissue cutting surface.

Example 28

The surgical instrument of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27,wherein the first end effector jaw comprises an elongate channel that isconfigured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein andwherein the second end effector jaw comprises an anvil.

Example 29

The surgical instrument of Examples 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 or 28,wherein the jaw pivot axis is fixed.

Example 30

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate shaft assembly that definesa shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to theelongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative theretoabout an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. Thesurgical end effector comprises an elongate channel that is coupled tothe elongate shaft assembly and is configured to operably support asurgical fastener cartridge therein. An anvil is coupled to the elongatechannel for selective pivotal travel relative thereto about a fixed jawpivot axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical instrumentfurther comprises an axially movable firing member that comprises atleast one anvil engagement feature that is configured to apply a closuremotion to the anvil as the axially movable firing member is moved from astarting position to an end position within the elongate channel. Atleast one anvil engagement feature is configured such that a portionthereof is positioned between the fixed jaw pivot axis and thearticulation axis when the axially movable firing member is in thestarting position.

Example 31

The surgical instrument of Example 30, wherein the portion of the atleast one anvil engagement feature is positioned between the fixed jawpivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firingmember is in the starting position and the anvil is in a fully openedposition.

Example 32

The surgical instrument of Examples 30 or 31, wherein at leastthirty-five percent of each anvil engagement feature is located betweenthe fixed jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axiallymovable firing member is in the starting position.

Example 33

The surgical instrument of Examples 30, 31 or 32, wherein at leastthirty-five percent of each anvil engagement feature is located betweenthe fixed jaw pivot axis and the articulation axis when the axiallymovable firing member is in the starting position.

Example 34

The surgical instrument of Example 30, wherein at least thirty-fivepercent of each anvil engagement feature is located between the jawpivot axis and the articulation axis when the axially movable firingmember is in the starting position and the anvil is in a fully openedposition.

Example 35

The surgical instrument of Examples 30, 31, 32, 33 or 34, furthercomprising an axially movable closure member that is independentlymovable relative to the axially movable firing member and is configuredto selectively apply additional closure motions to the anvil.

Example 36

The surgical instrument of Example 35, wherein the axially movableclosure member comprises a closure member cam surface that is configuredfor camming contact with an anvil cam surface on the anvil.

Example 37

The surgical instrument of Examples 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or 36,wherein the firing member comprises a tissue cutting surface.

Example 38

The surgical instrument of Examples 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 or 36,wherein the firing member comprises a firing member body comprising atissue cutting surface thereon and wherein at least one anvil engagementfeature comprises a first anvil engagement tab that protrudes from afirst lateral side of a top portion of the firing member body and asecond anvil engagement tab that protrudes from a second lateral side ofthe top portion of the firing member body.

Example 39

The surgical instrument of Example 38, wherein the firing member bodyextends through a slot in an anvil mounting portion of the anvil whenthe firing member is in the starting position.

Example 40

A surgical system comprising a housing that operably supports a closuresystem and a firing system. The closure system and the firing system areindependently actuatable relative to each other. The surgical systemfurther comprises an interchangeable surgical tool assembly thatcomprises an elongate shaft assembly that is operably and removablycouplable to the housing such that a proximal closure portion thereof isconfigured to receive axial closure motions from the closure system anda proximal firing member thereof is configured to receive firing motionsfrom the firing system. The elongate shaft assembly defines a shaftaxis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongate shaftassembly for selective articulation relative thereto about anarticulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical endeffector comprises an elongate channel that is coupled to the elongateshaft assembly and is configured to operably support a surgical fastenercartridge therein. An anvil is coupled to the elongate channel forselective pivotal travel relative thereto about a jaw pivot axis that istransverse to the shaft axis. An axially movable firing member isoperably coupled to the proximal firing member and comprises at leastone anvil engagement feature that is configured to apply a closuremotion to the anvil as the axially movable firing member is moved from astarting position to an end position within the elongate channel. Atleast one anvil engagement feature is configured such that a portionthereof is positioned between the jaw pivot axis and the articulationaxis when the axially movable firing member is in the starting position.

Example 41

The surgical system of Example 40, wherein the housing comprises aportion of a robotic system.

Example 42

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate shaft assembly that definesa shaft axis. A first end effector jaw is coupled to the elongate shaftassembly and a second end effector jaw is coupled to the first endeffector jaw for selective pivotal travel relative thereto between afully open position and a fully closed position about a fixed jaw pivotaxis that is transverse to the shaft axis and extends therethrough. Theelongate shaft assembly comprises a closure member that is axiallymovable between a starting position that corresponds to the fully openposition of the second end effector jaw and an ending position thatcorresponds to a fully closed position of the second end effector jawrelative to the first end effector jaw. When the closure member is inthe starting position, a distal end thereof is located on a plane thatis spaced distally from the jaw pivot axis a distance that is measuredalong the shaft axis that is no more than 0.090 inches.

Example 43

The surgical instrument of Example 42, wherein when the closure memberis in the starting position, the distal end of the closure member islocated on the plane and the plane intersects the jaw pivot axis.

Example 44

The surgical instrument of Examples 42 or 43, wherein the distance iswithin 0.010-0.060 inches.

Example 45

The surgical instrument of Examples 42, 43 or 44, wherein the closuremember comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segment thatcomprises a closure cam surface that is configured to cammingly engage ajaw cam surface on the second end effector jaw as the axially movabledistal closure tube segment is moved from the starting position to theending position.

Example 46

The surgical instrument of Examples 42, 43, 44 or 45, wherein the firstend effector jaw comprises an elongate channel that is configured tooperably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein and wherein thesecond end effector jaw comprises an anvil.

Example 47

The surgical instrument of Example 46, wherein the anvil comprises ananvil body and an anvil mounting portion that comprises an anvil camsurface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions that areconfigured to be pivotally supported in corresponding openings in theelongate channel.

Example 48

The surgical instrument of Examples 46 or 47, wherein the closure membercomprises an axially movable distal closure tube segment that comprisesa closure cam surface that is configured to cammingly engage the anvilcam surface on the anvil as the axially movable distal closure tubesegment is moved from the starting position to the ending position.

Example 49

The surgical instrument of Example 48, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to theelongate channel and a proximal closure tube assembly that is movablysupported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and ispivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 50

The surgical instrument of Example 49, wherein proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is configured toselectively apply axial closure and opening motions to the proximalclosure tube assembly.

Example 51

The surgical instrument of Example 50, wherein closure system issupported by a handheld housing.

Example 52

The surgical instrument of Example 50, wherein the closure system issupported by a housing that operably interfaces with a roboticcontrolled actuator.

Example 53

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate shaft assembly that definesa shaft axis. An elongate channel is configured to operably support asurgical fastener cartridge therein and is operably coupled to theelongate shaft assembly for selective articulation relative theretoabout an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. Ananvil is pivotally coupled to the elongate channel for selective pivotaltravel relative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition about a fixed jaw pivot axis that transversely intersects theshaft axis. The elongate shaft assembly comprises a closure member thatis axially movable between a starting position that corresponds to thefully open position of the anvil and an ending position that correspondsto a fully closed position of the anvil. When the closure member is inthe starting position, a distal end thereof is located on a plane thatis spaced distally from the jaw pivot axis a distance that is measuredalong the shaft axis that is no more than 0.090 inches.

Example 54

The surgical instrument of Example 53, wherein when the closure memberis in the starting position, the distal end of the closure member islocated on the plane and the plane intersects the jaw pivot axis.

Example 55

The surgical instrument of Examples 53 or 54, wherein the distance iswithin 0.010-0.060 inches.

Example 56

The surgical instrument of Examples 53, 54 or 55, wherein the anvilcomprises an anvil body and an anvil mounting portion that comprises ananvil cam surface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions thatare configured to be pivotally supported in corresponding openings inthe elongate channel.

Example 57

The surgical instrument of Examples 53, 54, 55 or 56, wherein theclosure member comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segmentthat comprises a closure cam surface that is configured to camminglyengage the anvil cam surface on the anvil as the axially movable distalclosure tube segment is moved from the starting position and to theending position.

Example 58

The surgical instrument of Example 57, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to theelongate channel and a proximal closure tube assembly that is movablysupported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and ispivotally coupled to the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 59

The surgical instrument of Example 58, wherein the proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is supported bya handheld housing and is configured to selectively apply axial closureand opening motions to the proximal closure tube assembly.

Example 60

The surgical instrument of Example 58, wherein the proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is supported bya housing that is configured to interface with a robotic system. Theclosure system is configured to selectively apply axial closure andopening motions to the proximal closure tube assembly.

Example 61

A surgical system that comprises a housing that operably supports aclosure system. The surgical system further comprises an interchangeablesurgical tool assembly that comprises an elongate shaft assembly that isoperably and removably couplable to the housing such that a proximalclosure portion thereof is configured to receive axial closure motionsfrom the closure system. The elongate shaft assembly defines a shaftaxis. A surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongate shaftassembly for selective articulation relative thereto about anarticulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical endeffector comprises an elongate channel that is coupled to the elongateshaft assembly and is configured to operably support a surgical fastenercartridge therein. An anvil is coupled to the elongate channel forselective pivotal travel relative thereto about a jaw pivot axis thattransversely intersects the shaft axis. The elongate shaft assemblycomprises a closure member that is axially movable between a startingposition that corresponds to a fully open position of the anvil and anending position that corresponds to a fully closed position of theanvil. When the closure member is in the starting position, a distal endthereof is located on a plane that is spaced distally from the jaw pivotaxis a distance that is measured along the shaft axis that is no morethan 0.090 inches.

Example 62

A surgical stapling device that comprises an elongate shaft assemblythat defines a shaft axis. A surgical end effector is operably coupledto the elongate shaft assembly by an articulation joint that isconfigured to facilitate selective articulation of the surgical endeffector about an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaftaxis. The surgical end effector comprises a surgical staple cartridgethat operably supports a plurality of surgical staples therein. An anvilis supported for selective pivotal travel relative to the surgicalstaple cartridge between a fully open position and a closed position.The anvil comprises a plurality of staple forming pockets thatcorrespond to the surgical staples in the surgical staple cartridge. Thesurgical stapling device further comprises an axially movable firingmember that comprises at least one anvil engagement feature thereon thatis configured to engage the anvil when the anvil is in the closedposition as the axially movable firing member is moved from a proximalmost position to a distalmost position. The surgical stapling devicealso comprises means for increasing a jaw aperture distance between adistalmost staple in the surgical staple cartridge and a correspondingone of the staple forming pockets in the anvil while minimizing a jointdistance between the articulation axis and a distal end of the anvilengagement feature on the axially movable firing member when the axiallymovable firing member is in the proximal most position.

Example 63

The surgical stapling device of Example 62, wherein the means forincreasing comprises a closure member that is configured to applyclosure motions to the anvil, wherein the closure member is axiallymovable between a starting position corresponding to the fully openposition of the second end effector jaw and an ending positioncorresponding to a fully closed position of the anvil. When the closuremember is in the starting position and the axially movable firing memberis in the proximal most position, the distal end of the closure memberis distally spaced from the distal end of the anvil engagement feature ahorizontal distance that is within a range of 0.4-0.9 inches.

Example 64

The surgical stapling device of Example 63, wherein the horizontaldistance is measured along a horizontal line that is parallel to orcoincident with the shaft axis.

Example 65

The surgical stapling device of Examples 62, 63 or 64, wherein theclosure member comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segmentthat comprises a closure cam surface that is configured to camminglyengage a cam surface on the anvil as the axially movable distal closuretube segment is moved from the starting position to the ending position.

Example 66

The surgical stapling device of Examples 62, 63, 64 or 65, wherein thesurgical fastener cartridge is removably supported in an elongatechannel that is operably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly by thearticulation joint.

Example 67

The surgical stapling device of Example 66, wherein the anvil comprisesan anvil body and an anvil mounting portion that comprises an anvil camsurface and a pair of laterally extending anvil trunnions that areconfigured to be pivotally supported in corresponding openings in theelongate channel.

Example 68

The surgical stapling device of Examples 63, 64, 65, 66 or 67, whereinthe elongate shaft assembly comprises an axially movable proximalclosure tube assembly and wherein the closure member comprises anaxially movable distal closure tube segment that is operably coupled tothe axially movable proximal closure tube assembly.

Example 69

The surgical stapling device of Example 68, wherein the axially movabledistal closure tube segment comprises a closure cam surface that isconfigured to cammingly engage the anvil cam surface on the anvil as theaxially movable distal closure tube segment is moved from the startingposition to the ending position.

Example 70

The surgical stapling device of Examples 68 or 69, wherein the elongateshaft assembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled tothe elongate channel and movably supports at least a portion of theproximal closure tube assembly thereon and wherein the proximal closuretube assembly operably interfaces with a closure system that isconfigured to selectively apply axial closure and opening motions to theproximal closure tube assembly.

Example 71

The surgical stapling device of Example 70, wherein the closure systemis supported by a handheld housing.

Example 72

The surgical stapling device of Example 70, wherein the closure systemis supported by a housing that operably interfaces with a roboticcontrolled actuator.

Example 73

A surgical instrument that comprises an elongate shaft assembly that hasan elongate channel coupled thereto that is configured to operablysupport a surgical fastener cartridge therein. An anvil is pivotallycoupled to the elongate channel for selective pivotal travel relativethereto between a fully open position and a fully closed position abouta fixed jaw pivot axis. A closure member is configured to apply closuremotions to the anvil to move the anvil between the fully open positionand the fully closed position as the closure member is moved from astarting position to an ending position. The surgical instrument furthercomprises an axially movably firing member that has at least one anvilengagement feature thereon that is configured to apply additionalclosure motions to the anvil as the axially movable firing member ismoved from a proximal most position to a distalmost position within theelongate channel. When the closure member is in the starting positionand the axially movable firing member is in the proximal most position,a distal end of the closure member is distal to a distal end of theanvil engagement feature.

Example 74

The surgical instrument of Example 73, wherein when the closure memberis in the starting position and the axially movable firing member is inthe proximal most position, the distal end of the closure member isdistally spaced from the distal end of the anvil engagement feature ahorizontal distance within a range of 0.4-0.9 inches.

Example 75

The surgical instrument of Example 74, wherein the elongate shaftassembly defines a shaft axis and wherein the horizontal distance ismeasured along a horizontal line that is parallel to or coincident withthe shaft axis.

Example 76

The surgical instrument of Examples 73, 74 or 75, wherein the closuremember comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segment thatcomprises a closure cam surface that is configured to cammingly engagean anvil cam surface on the anvil as the axially movable distal closuretube segment is moved from the starting position to the ending position.

Example 77

The surgical instrument of Example 76, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to theelongate channel. A proximal closure tube assembly is movably supportedfor axial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupledto the axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 78

The surgical instrument of Example 77, wherein the proximal closure tubeassembly operably interfaces with a closure system that is configured toselectively apply axial closure and opening motions to the proximalclosure tube assembly.

Example 79

The surgical instrument of Example 78, wherein the closure system issupported by a handheld housing.

Example 80

The surgical instrument of Example 78, wherein the closure system issupported by a housing that operably interfaces with a roboticcontrolled actuator.

Example 81

A surgical system comprising a housing that operably supports a closuresystem. The surgical system further comprises an interchangeablesurgical tool assembly that comprises an elongate shaft assembly that isoperably and removably couplable to the housing such that a proximalclosure portion thereof is configured to receive axial closure motionsfrom the closure system. The elongate shaft assembly defines a shaftaxis. The surgical tool assembly further comprises a surgical endeffector that is operably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly forselective articulation relative thereto about an articulation axis thatis transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical end effector comprises anelongate channel that is coupled to the elongate shaft assembly and isconfigured to operably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein. Ananvil is coupled to the elongate channel for selective pivotal travelrelative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition about a jaw pivot axis that is transverse to the shaft axis.The elongate shaft assembly comprises a distal closure member that isoperably coupled to the proximal closure portion and is configured toapply closure motions to the anvil to move the anvil between the fullyopen position and the fully closed position as the distal closure memberis moved from a starting position to an ending position. An axiallymovable firing member comprises at least one anvil engagement featurethat is configured to apply additional closure motions to the anvil asthe axially movable firing member is moved from a proximal most positionto a distalmost position within the elongate channel. When the distalclosure member is in the starting position and the axially movablefiring member is in the proximal most position, a distal end of thedistal closure member is distal to a distal end of the anvil engagementfeature.

Example 82

A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprisesa first jaw that defines a first tissue contacting surface and a secondjaw that is pivotally coupled to the first jaw. The second jaw isselectively movable between a fully open position and a fully closedposition about a fixed jaw pivot axis. The second jaw comprises a secondtissue contacting surface that faces the first tissue contactingsurface. At least one tissue locating feature is on the second jaw andextends downward beyond the second tissue contacting surface and isconfigured to prevent tissue received between the first and secondtissue contacting surfaces from extending proximally beyond a distal endportion of the at least one tissue locating feature when the second jawis in the fully closed position. When the second jaw is in the fullyopen position, the distal end portion of each tissue locating feature ispositioned relative to a corresponding portion of the first tissuecontacting surface to prevent a gap therebetween. A jaw aperture anglebetween the first and second tissue contacting surfaces when the secondjaw is in the fully open position is greater than 12.25 degrees.

Example 83

The surgical instrument of Example 82, wherein the distal end portion ofeach tissue locating feature is located a distance that is less than0.750 inches from the fixed jaw pivot axis when the second jaw is in thefully closed position.

Example 84

The surgical instrument of Examples 82 or 83, wherein the first jawcomprises an elongate channel that is configured to operably support asurgical fastener cartridge therein and wherein the first tissuecontacting surface comprises a deck surface of the surgical fastenercartridge.

Example 85

The surgical instrument of Examples 82, 83 or 84, wherein the second jawcomprises an anvil and wherein the second tissue contacting surfacecomprises a fastener forming undersurface of a portion of the anvil.

Example 86

The surgical instrument of Example 85, wherein the anvil comprises ananvil body portion and wherein the at least one tissue locating featureis formed on a proximal portion of the anvil body portion.

Example 87

The surgical instrument of Examples 82, 83, 84, 85 or 86, wherein thesurgical end effector is sized to pass through a trocar cannula when thesecond jaw is in the fully closed position.

Example 88

The surgical instrument of Examples 82, 83, 84, 85, 86 or 87, furthercomprising means for applying closing and opening motions to the secondjaw.

Example 89

The surgical instrument of Example 88, wherein the means for applyingclosing and opening motions comprises an axially movable closure tube.The closure tube comprises a closure cam surface on a distal end thereofthat is configured to cammingly engage a jaw cam surface on the secondjaw to apply closure motions thereto and at least one jaw openingfeature that is configured to apply jaw opening motions to the secondjaw when the axially movable closure tube is moved in a proximaldirection.

Example 90

A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprisesa surgical fastener cartridge that comprises a cartridge body thatoperably supports a plurality of surgical fasteners therein. Thecartridge body defines a tissue contacting surface through which thesurgical fasteners are ejected. An anvil is pivotally supported relativeto the surgical fastener cartridge for selective pivotal travel relativethereto between a fully open position and a fully closed position abouta fixed jaw pivot axis. The anvil comprises an anvil body that defines afastener forming surface that comprises a plurality of fastener formingformations, wherein each fastener forming formation corresponds to oneof the surgical fasteners in the surgical fastener cartridge. Thefastener forming surface faces the tissue contacting surface on thesurgical fastener cartridge. At least one tissue stop protrudes from theanvil body and extends downward beyond the fastener forming surface andis configured to prevent tissue received between the tissue contactingsurface and the fastener forming surface from extending proximallybeyond a distal end portion of the tissue stop when the anvil is in thefully closed position. When the anvil is in the fully closed position,the distal end portion of each tissue stop is spaced from the fixed jawpivot axis an axial distance that is less than 0.750 inches and whereina vertical distance between a distalmost one of the fasteners in thesurgical cartridge and a corresponding one of the fastener formingformations on the fastener forming surface when the anvil is in thefully open position is at least 0.900 inches.

Example 91

The surgical instrument of Example 90, wherein when the anvil is in thefully open position, a jaw aperture angle between the fastener formingsurface and the tissue contacting surface is greater than 12.25 degrees.

Example 92

The surgical instrument of Examples 90 or 91, wherein the surgical endeffector is sized to pass through a trocar cannula when the anvil is inthe fully closed position.

Example 93

The surgical instrument of Examples 90, 91 or 92, further comprisingmeans for applying closing and opening motions to the anvil.

Example 94

The surgical instrument of Example 93, wherein the means for applyingclosing and opening motions comprises an axially movable closure tube.The axially movable closure tube comprises a closure cam surface on adistal end thereof that is configured to cammingly engage an anvil camsurface on the anvil to apply closure motions thereto. At least one jawopening feature is configured to apply jaw opening motions to the anvilwhen the axially movable closure tube is moved in a proximal direction.

Example 95

The surgical instrument of Examples 90, 91, 92, 93 or 94, wherein thesurgical end effector is operably coupled to an elongate shaft assemblythat defines a shaft axis.

Example 96

The surgical instrument of Example 95, wherein the tissue contactingsurface of the cartridge body is parallel to the shaft axis and whereinthe vertical distance is measured along a line extending from a distalmost fastener and the corresponding fastener forming formation andperpendicular to the shaft axis.

Example 97

The surgical instrument of Example 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95 or 96, whereinthe when the anvil is in the fully open position, the distal end portionof each tissue stop is positioned relative to a corresponding portion ofthe tissue contacting surface to prevent a gap therebetween.

Example 98

The surgical instrument of Example 97, wherein when the anvil is in thefully open position, a portion of each tissue stop is even with orextends below the tissue contacting surface to prevent tissue on thetissue contacting surface from extending proximally past the tissuestops.

Example 99

The surgical instrument of Examples 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 96, 97 or98, wherein when the anvil is in the fully open position, a portion ofeach tissue stop is even with or extends below the tissue contactingsurface to prevent tissue on the tissue contacting surface fromextending proximally past the tissue stops.

Example 100

A surgical system comprising a housing that operably supports a closuresystem. An interchangeable surgical tool assembly comprises an elongateshaft assembly that is operably and removably couplable to the housingsuch that a proximal closure portion thereof is configured to receiveaxial closure motions from the closure system and defines a shaft axis.A surgical end effector is operably coupled to the elongate shaftassembly for selective articulation relative thereto about anarticulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis. The surgical endeffector comprises a surgical fastener cartridge that comprises acartridge body that operably supports a plurality of surgical fastenerstherein and defines a tissue contacting surface through which thesurgical fasteners are ejected. An anvil is pivotally supported relativeto the surgical fastener cartridge for selective pivotal travel relativethereto between a fully open position and a fully closed position abouta fixed jaw pivot axis. The anvil comprises an anvil body that defines afastener forming surface that comprises a plurality of fastener formingformations, wherein each fastener forming formation corresponds to oneof the surgical fasteners in the surgical fastener cartridge. Thefastener forming surface faces the tissue contacting surface on thesurgical fastener cartridge. At least one tissue stop protrudes from theanvil body and extends downward beyond the fastener forming surface andis configured to prevent tissue that is received between the tissuecontacting surface and the fastener forming surface from extendingproximally beyond a distal end portion of at least one tissue stop whenthe anvil is in the fully closed position. When the anvil is in thefully closed position, the distal end portion of each tissue stop isspaced from the fixed jaw pivot axis an axial distance that is less than0.750 inches and wherein a vertical distance between a distalmost one ofthe fasteners in the surgical cartridge and a corresponding one of thefastener forming formations on the fastener forming surface when theanvil is in the fully open position is at least 0.900 inches.

Example 101

The surgical instrument of Example 100, wherein, when the anvil is inthe fully open position, a jaw aperture angle between the fastenerforming surface the tissue contacting surface is greater than 12.25degrees.

Example 102

The surgical instrument of Examples 100 or 101, wherein the surgical endeffector is sized to pass through a trocar cannula when the anvil is inthe fully closed position.

Example 103

A surgical instrument that comprises a first jaw that includes a pair oflaterally aligned vertical slots that are formed in a proximal endportion of the first jaw. Each vertical slot has an open upper end. Asecond jaw is movably supported for selective pivotal travel relative tothe first jaw between a fully open and a fully closed position. Thesecond jaw comprises a second jaw body and a pair of pivot members thatprotrude laterally from a proximal end of the second jaw body. Eachpivot member is pivotally received in a corresponding one of thevertical slots in the first jaw such that the pivot members may pivottherein to facilitate pivotal travel of the second jaw relative to thefirst jaw. The surgical instrument further comprises a retainer memberthat is configured to operably engage the proximal end portion of thefirst jaw and retain the pivot members in the corresponding verticalslots as the second jaw moves between the fully open and the fullyclosed positions. An axially movable closure member is configured toapply closing and opening motions to the second jaw and retain theretainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal end portion ofthe first jaw.

Example 104

The surgical instrument of Example 103, wherein each pivot member has acircular cross-sectional shape and wherein the retainer member comprisesa slot cap that corresponds to each vertical slot and is sized to extendtherein through the open end. Each slot cap has an arcuate bottomportion that is configured to pivotally receive the corresponding pivotpin therein.

Example 105

The surgical instrument of Example 103, wherein each vertical slot isformed in a corresponding upstanding vertical wall portion of the firstjaw and wherein the retainer member comprises a retainer body that issized to span between the vertical wall portions. The retainer memberfurther comprises a slot cap that corresponds to each vertical slot andis sized to extend therein through the open end. A mounting formation ison the retainer body and corresponds to each upstanding vertical wallportion and is configured to be seated in a correspondingly shapedmounting opening therein.

Example 106

The surgical instrument of Example 105, wherein the mounting formationsare located proximal to the slot caps.

Example 107

The surgical instrument of Examples 103, 104, 105 or 106, wherein theaxially movable closure member comprises an axially movable distalclosure tube segment that is sized to slidably move over the retainermember to provide opening and closing motions to the second jaw andretain the retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal endportion of the first jaw.

Example 108

The surgical instrument of Example 107, wherein the first jaw isoperably coupled to an elongate shaft assembly.

Example 109

The surgical instrument of Example 108, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to thefirst jaw. A proximal closure tube assembly is movably supported foraxial travel relative to the spine assembly and is pivotally coupled tothe axially movable distal closure tube segment.

Example 110

The surgical instrument of Example 109, wherein the proximal closuretube assembly operably interfaces with a closure system that isconfigured to selectively apply axial closure and opening motions to theproximal closure tube assembly.

Example 111

The surgical instrument of Example 110, wherein the closure system issupported by a handheld housing.

Example 112

The surgical instrument of Example 110, wherein the closure system issupported by a housing that operably interfaces with a roboticcontrolled actuator.

Example 113

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate channel that is configuredto operably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein. The elongatechannel includes a pair of laterally aligned vertical slots that areformed in a proximal end portion of the elongate channel wherein eachvertical slot includes an open upper end. An anvil is movably supportedfor selective pivotal travel relative to the elongate channel between afully open and a fully closed position. The anvil comprises an anvilbody and a pair of anvil trunnions that protrude laterally from an anvilmounting portion of the anvil body. Each anvil trunnion is pivotallyreceived in a corresponding vertical slot in the elongate channel suchthat the anvil trunnions may pivot therein to facilitate pivotal travelof the anvil relative to the elongate channel. The surgical instrumentfurther comprises a retainer member that is configured to be supportedon the proximal end portion of the elongate channel and pivotally retaineach anvil trunnion in the corresponding vertical slots as the anvilmoves between the fully open and fully closed positions. An axiallymovable closure member is configured to apply closing and openingmotions to the anvil and retain the retainer member in retainingengagement with the proximal end portion of the elongate channel.

Example 114

The surgical instrument of Example 113, wherein each anvil trunnioncomprises a circular cross-sectional shape and wherein the retainermember comprises a slot cap that corresponds to each vertical slot andis sized to extend therein through the open end. Each slot cap has anarcuate bottom portion that is configured to pivotally receive thecorresponding anvil trunnion therein.

Example 115

The surgical instrument of Example 113, wherein each vertical slot isformed in a corresponding upstanding vertical wall portion of theelongate channel and wherein the retainer member comprises a retainerbody that is sized to span between the vertical wall portions. Theretainer member further comprises a slot cap that corresponds to eachvertical slot and is sized to extend therein through the open end. Theretainer member also comprises mounting formations on the retainer bodythat correspond to each upstanding vertical wall portion and areconfigured to be seated in a correspondingly shaped mounting openingtherein.

Example 116

The surgical instrument of Example 115, wherein the slot cap has a wedgeshape that is configured to be inserted into the open end of thecorresponding vertical slot.

Example 117

The surgical instrument of Examples 113, 114, 115 or 116, wherein theretainer member is affixed to the elongate channel by at least one offrictional engagement with the elongate channel, adhesive and welding.

Example 118

The surgical instrument of Examples 113, 114, 115, 116 or 117, whereinthe axially movable closure member comprises an axially movable distalclosure tube segment that is sized to slidably move over the retainermember to provide opening and closing motions to the anvil and retainthe retainer member in retaining engagement with the proximal endportion of the elongate channel.

Example 119

The surgical instrument of Examples 113, 114, 115, 116, 117 or 118,wherein the elongate channel is operably coupled to an elongate shaftassembly.

Example 120

The surgical instrument of Example 119, wherein the elongate shaftassembly comprises a spine assembly that is operably coupled to theelongate channel and a proximal closure tube assembly that is movablysupported for axial travel relative to the spine assembly and ispivotally coupled to the axially movable closure member.

Example 121

A surgical system comprising a housing that operably supports a closuresystem. The surgical system further comprises an interchangeablesurgical tool assembly that includes an elongate shaft assembly that isoperably and removably couplable to the housing such that a proximalclosure portion thereof is configured to receive axial closure motionsfrom the closure system. The interchangeable surgical tool assemblyfurther comprises a surgical end effector that comprises an elongatechannel that is configured to operably support a surgical fastenercartridge therein and includes a pair of laterally aligned verticalslots that are formed in a proximal end portion of the elongate channel.Each vertical slot includes an open upper end. An anvil is movablysupported for selective pivotal travel relative to the elongate channelbetween a fully open and a fully closed position. The anvil comprises ananvil body and a pair of anvil trunnions that protrude laterally from ananvil mounting portion of the anvil body. Each anvil trunnion ispivotally received in a corresponding vertical slot in the elongatechannel such that the anvil trunnions may pivot therein to facilitatepivotal travel of the anvil relative to elongate channel. The surgicalsystem further comprises a retainer member that is configured to besupported on the proximal end portion of the elongate channel andpivotally retain each anvil trunnion in the corresponding vertical slotsas the anvil moves between the fully open and the fully closedpositions. An axially movable closure member is configured to applyclosing and opening motions to the anvil and retain the retainer memberin retaining engagement with the proximal end portion of the elongatechannel.

Example 122

The surgical system of Example 121, wherein the axially movable closuremember comprises an axially movable distal closure tube segment that issized to slidably move over the retainer member to provide opening andclosing motions to the anvil and retain the retainer member in retainingengagement with the proximal end portion of the elongate channel. Theelongate shaft assembly further comprises a spine assembly that isoperably coupled to the elongate channel; and a proximal closure tubeassembly that is movably supported for axial travel relative to thespine assembly and is pivotally coupled to the axially movable distalclosure tube segment.

Example 123

A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw and a second jaw that iscoupled to the first jaw for selective pivotal travel relative theretobetween a fully open position and a fully closed position. An axiallymovable closure member is selectively axially movable in a closuredirection to move the second jaw from the fully open position to thefully closed position and in an axial opening direction to move thesecond jaw from the fully closed position to the fully open position.The axially movable closure member comprises a first jaw opening featurethat is configured to apply a first jaw opening motion to the secondjaw. A second jaw opening feature is axially spaced from the first jawopening feature such that, when the closure member is moved in the axialopening direction, the first jaw opening feature applies the first jawopening motion to the second jaw and when the closure member has axiallymoved a predetermined axial distance in the axial opening direction, thefirst jaw opening feature discontinues application of the first jawopening motion and the second jaw opening feature applies a second jawopening motion to the second jaw to move the second jaw to the fullyopen position.

Example 124

The surgical instrument of Example 123, wherein the first jaw openingfeature is axially proximal to the second jaw opening feature.

Example 125

The surgical instrument of Examples 123 or 124, wherein the first jawdefines a central jaw axis wherein the first jaw opening feature isaxially spaced from the central jaw axis on a first lateral side thereofon the closure member and wherein the second jaw opening feature isspaced from the central jaw axis on a second lateral side thereof thatis opposite to the first lateral side on the closure member.

Example 126

The surgical instrument of Examples 123, 124 or 125, wherein the secondjaw comprises a second jaw mounting portion that is pivotally supportedon the first jaw. The second jaw mounting portion comprises a second jawcam surface on the second jaw mounting portion and is configured to beaxially cammingly contacted by the first jaw opening feature as theclosure member is axially moved in the axial opening direction throughthe predetermined axial distance. The second jaw cam surface isconfigured to disengage the first jaw opening feature as the closuremember continues to move in the axial opening direction beyond thepredetermined axial distance. The second jaw mounting portion furthercomprises a second jaw cam surface that is configured to be axiallycamming contacted by the second jaw opening feature as the closuremember continues to move in the axial opening direction beyond thepredetermined axial distance.

Example 127

The surgical instrument of Example 126, wherein the closure member isaxially movable in the axial opening direction from a first positioncorresponding to the fully closed position of the second jaw to a firstintermediate axial position without applying the first jaw openingmotion thereto.

Example 128

The surgical instrument of Example 127, wherein when the closure memberis axially moved in the axial opening direction from the firstintermediate axial position to a second intermediate axial position, thefirst jaw opening feature applies the first jaw opening motion to thesecond jaw to cause the second jaw to move relative to the first jawthrough a second jaw aperture angle.

Example 129

The surgical instrument of Example 128, wherein the second jaw apertureangle is 10°.

Example 130

The surgical instrument of Examples 128 or 129, wherein when the closuremember is axially moved in the axial opening direction between thesecond intermediate axial position and a third intermediate axialposition, the first jaw opening feature does not move the second jawrelative to the first jaw beyond the second jaw aperture angle.

Example 131

The surgical instrument of Example 130, wherein axial movement of theclosure member in the axial opening direction from the thirdintermediate axial position to a fourth intermediate axial position,causes the second jaw opening feature to apply the second jaw openingmotion to the second jaw.

Example 132

The surgical instrument of Example 131, wherein axial movement of theclosure member in the axial opening direction between the thirdintermediate axial position and the fourth intermediate axial positioncauses the second jaw to move relative to the first jaw to a second jawaperture angle.

Example 133

The surgical instrument of Example 132, wherein the second jaw apertureangle is 22°.

Example 134

The surgical instrument of Examples 131, 132 or 133, wherein axialmovement of the closure member in the axial opening direction from thethird intermediate axial position to the fourth intermediate axialposition causes the first jaw opening feature to discontinue applicationof the first jaw opening motion to the second jaw.

Example 135

The surgical instrument of Example 134, wherein axial movement of theclosure member in the axial opening direction from the fourthintermediate axial position to a final axial position causes the secondjaw opening feature to discontinue application of the second jaw openingmotion to the second jaw.

Example 136

The surgical instrument of Examples 123, 124, 125, 126, 127, 128, 129,130, 131, 132, 133, 134 or 135, wherein the first jaw comprises asurgical fastener cartridge and wherein the second jaw comprises ananvil.

Example 137

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate channel that is configuredto operably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein. An anvil ispivotally supported on the elongate channel for selective pivotal travelrelative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition. An axially movable closure member is selectively axiallymovable in a closure direction to move the anvil from the fully openposition to the fully closed position and in an axial opening directionto move the anvil from the fully closed to the fully open position. Theaxially movable closure member comprises a proximal jaw opening featurethat is configured to apply a first jaw opening motion to the anvil. Adistal jaw opening feature is axially spaced from the proximal jawopening feature such that, when the closure member is moved in the axialopening direction, the proximal jaw opening feature applies the firstjaw opening motion to the anvil and when the closure member has axiallymoved a predetermined axial distance in the axial opening direction, theproximal jaw opening feature discontinues application of the first jawopening motion and the distal jaw opening feature applies a second jawopening motion to the anvil to move the anvil to the fully openposition.

Example 138

The surgical instrument of Example 137, wherein when the closure memberis axially moved in the axial opening direction from a firstintermediate axial position to a second intermediate axial position, thefirst jaw opening feature causes the anvil to move through a first jawaperture angle that is measured between a deck surface of the surgicalfastener cartridge that is supported in the elongate channel and afastener forming underside of the anvil.

Example 139

The surgical instrument of Example 138, wherein the first jaw apertureangle is 10°.

Example 140

The surgical instrument of Examples 138 or 139, wherein when the closuremember is axially moved in the axial opening direction between thesecond intermediate axial position and a third intermediate axialposition, the first jaw opening feature does not move the anvil relativeto the elongate channel beyond the first jaw aperture angle.

Example 141

The surgical instrument of Example 140, wherein axial movement of theclosure member in the axial opening direction from the thirdintermediate axial position to a fourth intermediate axial position,causes the second jaw opening feature to move the anvil through a secondjaw aperture angle that is greater than the first jaw aperture angle.

Example 142

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate channel that is configuredto operably support a surgical fastener cartridge therein. An anvil ispivotally supported on the elongate channel for selective pivotal travelrelative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition. An axially movable distal closure tube segment is selectivelyaxially movable in a closure direction to move the anvil from the fullyopen position to the fully closed position and in an axial openingdirection to move the anvil from the fully closed position to the fullyopen position. The axially movable distal closure tube segment comprisesa proximal jaw opening feature that is formed on the distal closure tubesegment and is configured to apply a first jaw opening motion to theanvil. A distal jaw opening feature is formed on the distal closure tubesegment and is axially spaced from the proximal jaw opening feature suchthat, when the distal closure tube segment is moved in the axial openingdirection, the proximal jaw opening feature applies the first jawopening motion to the anvil and when the distal closure tube segment hasaxially moved a predetermined axial distance in the opening direction,the proximal jaw opening feature discontinues application of the firstjaw opening motion and the distal jaw opening feature applies a secondjaw opening motion to the anvil to move the anvil to the fully openposition.

Example 143

A surgical instrument comprising a first jaw and a second jaw that iscoupled to the first jaw for selective pivotal travel relative theretobetween a fully open position and a fully closed position. A closuremember is configured to apply closure motions to the second jaw as theclosure member is axially movable in a distal direction from a startingposition corresponding to the fully open position of the second jaw toan ending position corresponding to the fully closed position of thesecond jaw. The closure member is further configured to move distallyfrom the starting position an initial predetermined axial closuredistance before applying the closure motion to the second jaw.

Example 144

The surgical instrument of Example 143, wherein the initialpredetermined axial closure distance is 0.020 inches.

Example 145

The surgical instrument of Examples 143 or 144, wherein closure memberis configured to distally move through a final predetermined axialclosure distance after the second jaw has been moved to the fully closedposition.

Example 146

The surgical instrument of Example 145, wherein the final predeterminedaxial closure distance is 0.040 inches.

Example 147

The surgical instrument of Examples 143, 144, 145 or 146, wherein theclosure member comprises a closure camming surface that is configured tocammingly engage a jaw camming surface on the second jaw to apply theclosure motions thereto.

Example 148

The surgical instrument of Examples 143, 144, 145, 146 or 147, whereinthe closure member further comprises means for applying opening motionsto the second jaw when the closure member axially moves in a proximaldirection from the ending position to the starting position.

Example 149

The surgical instrument of Example 148, wherein the means for applyingopening motions comprises a first jaw opening feature on the closuremember that is configured to apply a first amount of jaw opening motionto the second jaw as the closure member is axially moved from the endingposition to an intermediate axial position between the ending andstarting position. The means further comprises a second jaw openingfeature on the closure member that is axially spaced from the first jawopening feature and is configured to apply a second amount of jawopening motion to the second jaw as the closure member is axially movedfrom the intermediate position to the starting position.

Example 150

A surgical instrument comprising an elongate channel that is configuredto operably support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge therein. Ananvil is pivotally supported on the elongated channel for selectivepivotal travel relative thereto between a fully open position and afully closed position. A closure member is configured to apply closuremotions to the anvil as the closure member is axially movable in adistal direction from a starting position corresponding to the fullyopen position of the anvil to an ending position corresponding to thefully closed position of the anvil. The closure member is configured tomove distally from the starting position an initial predetermined axialclosure distance before applying the closure motion to the anvil.

Example 151

The surgical instrument of Example 150, wherein the initialpredetermined axial closure distance is 0.020 inches.

Example 152

The surgical instrument of Examples 150 or 151, wherein the closuremember is configured to distally move through a final predeterminedaxial closure distance after the anvil has been moved to the fullyclosed position.

Example 153

The surgical instrument of Example 152, wherein the final predeterminedaxial closure distance is 0.040 inches.

Example 154

The surgical instrument of Examples 152 or 153, wherein the closuremember is configured to apply the closure motion to the anvil as theclosure member moves distally through an intermediate predeterminedaxial closure distance after the closure member traveled the initialpredetermined axial closure distance and prior to traveling the finalpredetermined axial closure distance.

Example 155

The surgical instrument of Example 154, wherein the intermediatepredetermined axial closure distance is 0.200 inches.

Example 156

The surgical instrument of Examples 150, 151, 152, 153, 154 or 155,wherein the closure member comprises a closure camming surfaceconfigured to cammingly engage an anvil camming surface on an anvilmounting portion of the anvil to apply the closure motion thereto.

Example 157

The surgical instrument of Examples 150, 151, 152, 153, 154, 155, 156 or157, wherein the closure member further comprises means for applyingopening motions to the anvil when the closure member axially moves in aproximal direction from the ending position to the starting position.

Example 158

The surgical instrument of Example 157, wherein the means for applyingopening motions comprises a first jaw opening feature on the closuremember that is configured to apply a first amount of jaw opening motionto the anvil as the closure member is axially moved from the endingposition to an intermediate axial position between the ending positionand starting position. The means further comprises a second jaw openingfeature on the closure member that is axially spaced from the first jawopening feature and is configured to apply a second amount of jawopening motion to the anvil as the closure member is axially moved fromthe intermediate axial position to the starting position.

Example 159

A surgical system comprising a housing that operably supports a closuresystem. The surgical system further comprises an interchangeablesurgical tool assembly that comprises an elongate shaft assembly that isoperably and removably couplable to the housing such that a proximalclosure portion of the elongate shaft assembly is configured to receiveaxial closure motions from the closure system. The interchangeablesurgical tool assembly further comprises a surgical end effector that isoperably coupled to the elongate shaft assembly. The surgical endeffector comprises an elongate channel that is coupled to the elongateshaft assembly and is configured to operably support a surgical fastenercartridge therein. An anvil is coupled to the elongate channel forselective pivotal travel relative thereto between a fully open positionand a fully closed position. The elongate shaft assembly comprises anaxially movable proximal closure member that is configured to receivethe axial closure motions. A distal closure member is operably coupledto the proximal closure member and is configured to apply the axialclosure motions to the anvil as the distal closure member is axiallymovable in a distal direction from a starting position corresponding tothe fully open position of the anvil to an ending position correspondingto the fully closed position of the anvil. The distal closure member isconfigured to move distally from the starting position an initialpredetermined axial closure distance before applying the closure motionsto the anvil.

Example 160

The surgical instrument of Example 159, wherein the distal closuremember is configured to distally move through a final predeterminedaxial closure distance after the anvil has been moved to the fullyclosed position.

Example 161

A surgical tool assembly that comprises a first jaw and a second jawthat is movable relative to the first jaw. The surgical tool assemblyfurther comprises a firing system that comprises a firing memberassembly that is configured to move distally from a starting positionupon application of a firing motion thereto. The firing member assemblycomprises a first firing member element and a second firing memberelement that is pivotally coupled to the first firing member element atan attachment joint. The second firing member element is configured tomove between a locked position wherein the second firing member elementis in locking engagement with a lockout portion of the first jaw toprevent the firing member assembly from moving distally from thestarting position upon application of the firing motion thereto and anunlocked position wherein the firing member assembly is distallyadvanceable from the starting position upon the application of thefiring motion to the firing member assembly. The surgical tool assemblyfurther comprises means for preventing an unlocking load from beingapplied to the attachment joint when the second firing member is in thelocked position and the firing motion is applied to the first firingmember element.

Example 162

The surgical tool assembly of Example 161, wherein the lockout portioncomprises at least one lockout notch in the first jaw that is configuredto retainingly engage the second firing member element when the secondfiring member element is in the locked position.

Example 163

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161 or 162, further comprising abiasing member in the first jaw that is configured to bias the secondfiring member element into the locked position.

Example 164

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162 or 163, wherein thefirst firing member element comprises at least one first jaw engagingfeature that is configured to be movably received within a correspondingfirst jaw passage and at least one second jaw engaging feature that isconfigured to be movably received within a corresponding second jawpassage.

Example 165

The surgical tool assembly of Example 164, wherein when the firingmember assembly is in the starting position, each first jaw engagingfeature is in axial alignment with the corresponding first jaw passageand each second jaw engaging feature is in axial alignment with thecorresponding second jaw passage regardless of a position of the secondfiring member element.

Example 166

The surgical tool assembly of Example 165, wherein when the firingmember assembly is in the starting position and the second firing memberelement is in the locked position, each first jaw engaging feature is inaxial alignment with the corresponding first jaw passage and each saidsecond jaw engaging feature is in axial alignment with the correspondingsecond jaw passage.

Example 167

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165 or 166,wherein the first jaw is configured to operably support a removablesurgical component therein that operably supports a movable componentelement therein. The movable component element is movable between anunfired and fired positions. The second firing member element isconfigured to be moved from the locked position by the movable componentelement when the removable surgical component is supported in the firstjaw and the movable component element is in the unfired position.

Example 168

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166 or167, wherein the first jaw is operably coupled to an elongate shaft thatdefines a shaft axis and wherein the second firing member element ispivotable relative to the first firing member element about a pivot axisthat is transverse to the shaft axis.

Example 169

The surgical tool assembly of Claim Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165,166, 167 or 168, wherein the first firing member element comprises atissue cutting surface.

Example 170

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 168or 169, wherein the first jaw is configured to operably support asurgical staple cartridge that operably supports a sled therein. Thesled is movable between an unfired position and fired positions. Thesecond firing member element is configured to be moved from the lockedposition by the sled when the surgical staple cartridge is supported inthe first jaw and the sled is in the unfired position.

Example 171

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166,167, 168, 169 or 170, wherein the means for preventing comprises adistal surface and a lockout surface on the first firing member element.The distal surface is configured relative to a proximal surface on thesecond firing member element such that a space is provided therebetweenwhen the second firing member is in the unlocked position. The proximalsurface abuts the lockout surface when the second firing member elementis in the locked position.

Example 172

The surgical tool assembly of Examples 161, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166,167, 168, 169, 170 or 171, wherein the attachment joint comprises atleast one pivot member on the second firing member element and pivotallyreceived within a corresponding pivot hole in the first firing memberelement.

Example 173

The surgical tool assembly of Example 172, further comprising aclearance between each pivot member and its corresponding pivot holesuch that the unlocking load is not transferred to the at least onepivot member when the second firing member is in the locked position andthe firing motion is applied to the first firing member element.

Example 174

A stapling assembly comprising an anvil jaw and a staple cartridge jawcomprising a lockout surface. A firing member includes a distal end thatcomprises anvil-camming portions and channel-camming portions. Thefiring member further comprises a distal edge that comprises a cuttingmember and a lockout force-receiving surface. A lockout member ispivotally coupled to the distal end of the firing member by at least onepivot member. The lockout member is configured to engage the lockoutsurface of the staple cartridge jaw to block the advancement of thefiring member when a staple cartridge is not installed within the staplecartridge jaw or when a partially-spent staple cartridge is installedwithin the staple cartridge jaw and a firing motion is applied to thefiring member. The firing member and the lockout member are configuredto prevent an unlocking load from being applied to the pivot memberswhen the lockout member is in engagement with the lockout surface andthe firing motion is applied to the firing member.

Example 175

The stapling assembly of Example 174, wherein the staple cartridge jawcomprises a staple cartridge that includes a sled that is movablebetween an unfired position and a fired position. The sled is configuredto engage the lockout member to prevent the lockout member from movingrelative to the firing member to engage the lockout surface when thesled is in the unfired position.

Example 176

The stapling assembly of Examples 174 or 175, further comprising aspring that is configured to bias the lockout member relative to thefiring member into a locked configuration when a partially-spent staplecartridge is present and when a staple cartridge is not present.

Example 177

The stapling assembly of Examples 174, 175 or 176, wherein the firingmember is configured to not move substantially vertically.

Example 178

A surgical fastening instrument that comprises a first jaw that isconfigured to operably support an unfired surgical fastener cartridgetherein. An anvil is movably supported relative to the first jaw. Thesurgical fastening instrument further includes a firing system thatcomprises a firing member assembly that is configured to axially movebetween a starting position and an ending position. The firing memberassembly comprises a firing member that comprises a cutting surface anda tippable element that is pivotally coupled to the firing member by anattachment joint. The tippable element is configured to move relative tothe firing member between a locked position wherein the tippable elementis in locking engagement with a lockout portion of the first jaw toprevent the firing member assembly from moving distally from thestarting position upon application of a firing motion thereto and anunlocked position wherein the firing member assembly is distallyadvanceable from the starting position upon the application of thefiring motion to the firing member assembly. The firing member andtippable element are configured to prevent an unlocking load from beingapplied to the attachment joint when the tippable element is the lockedposition and the firing motion is applied to the firing member assembly.The surgical fastening instrument further comprises means for biasingthe tippable element into the locking engagement unless an unfiredsurgical fastener cartridge is operably supported in the first jaw.

Example 179

The surgical fastening instrument of Example 178, wherein the attachmentjoint comprises at least one pivot member that is on the tippableelement and is pivotally received within a corresponding pivot hole inthe firing member.

Example 180

The surgical fastening instrument of Example 179, further comprising aclearance between each pivot member and its corresponding pivot holesuch that the unlocking load is not transferred to each pivot memberwhen the tippable element is in the locked position and the firingmotion is applied to the firing member assembly.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are motivatedby an electric motor; however, the surgical instrument systems describedherein can be motivated in any suitable manner. In various instances,the surgical instrument systems described herein can be motivated by amanually-operated trigger, for example. In certain instances, the motorsdisclosed herein may comprise a portion or portions of a roboticallycontrolled system. Moreover, any of the end effectors and/or toolassemblies disclosed herein can be utilized with a robotic surgicalinstrument system. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitledSURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535, for example, disclosesseveral examples of a robotic surgical instrument system in greaterdetail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described inconnection with the deployment and deformation of staples; however, theembodiments described herein are not so limited. Various embodiments areenvisioned which deploy fasteners other than staples, such as clamps ortacks, for example. Moreover, various embodiments are envisioned whichutilize any suitable means for sealing tissue. For instance, an endeffector in accordance with various embodiments can comprise electrodesconfigured to heat and seal the tissue. Also, for instance, an endeffector in accordance with certain embodiments can apply vibrationalenergy to seal the tissue.

The entire disclosures of:

-   -   U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC        DEVICE, which issued on Apr. 4, 1995;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT        HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which        issued on Feb. 21, 2006;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING        AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which        issued on Sep. 9, 2008;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,849, entitled ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS,        which issued on Dec. 16, 2008;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN        ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which issued on Mar. 2, 2010;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS,        which issued on Jul. 13, 2010;    -   U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,514, entitled SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE        IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE, which issued on Mar. 12, 2013;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/343,803, entitled SURGICAL        INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES; now U.S. Pat. No.        7,845,537;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL        CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed        Feb. 14, 2008;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,873, entitled END        EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed        Feb. 15, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,980,443;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/235,782, entitled        MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No.        8,210,411;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/249,117, entitled POWERED        SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY        RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,608,045;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/647,100, entitled        MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR        DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY, filed Dec. 24, 2009; now U.S. Pat.        No. 8,220,688;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/893,461, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE, filed Sep. 29, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,733,613;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed Feb. 28, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No.        8,561,870;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL        STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT        ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,072,535;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/524,049, entitled        ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE,        filed on Jun. 15, 2012; now U.S. Pat. No. 9,101,358;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13,        2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,345,481;    -   U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE        CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13,        2013, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552;    -   U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955, entitled        SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER        LOCKING MECHANISM, filed Jan. 31, 2006; and

U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194, entitled SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, filed Apr. 22,2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,040, are hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

Although various devices have been described herein in connection withcertain embodiments, modifications and variations to those embodimentsmay be implemented. Particular features, structures, or characteristicsmay be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus,the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated ordescribed in connection with one embodiment may be combined in whole orin part, with the features, structures or characteristics of one oremore other embodiments without limitation. Also, where materials aredisclosed for certain components, other materials may be used.Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may bereplaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replacedby a single component, to perform a given function or functions. Theforegoing description and following claims are intended to cover allsuch modification and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after asingle use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In eithercase, however, a device can be reconditioned for reuse after at leastone use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the stepsincluding, but not limited to, the disassembly of the device, followedby cleaning or replacement of particular pieces of the device, andsubsequent reassembly of the device. In particular, a reconditioningfacility and/or surgical team can disassemble a device and, aftercleaning and/or replacing particular parts of the device, the device canbe reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety oftechniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use ofsuch techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all withinthe scope of the present application.

The devices disclosed herein may be processed before surgery. First, anew or used instrument may be obtained and, when necessary, cleaned. Theinstrument may then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, theinstrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plasticor TYVEK bag. The container and instrument may then be placed in a fieldof radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation,x-rays, and/or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria onthe instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument may thenbe stored in the sterile container. The sealed container may keep theinstrument sterile until it is opened in a medical facility. A devicemay also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art,including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethyleneoxide, plasma peroxide, and/or steam.

While this invention has been described as having exemplary designs, thepresent invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope ofthe disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover anyvariations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its generalprinciples.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or inpart, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein isincorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materialsdo not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or otherdisclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to theextent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth hereinsupersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference.Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated byreference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions,statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only beincorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between thatincorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

What is claimed is:
 1. A surgical instrument, comprising: a first jaw; asecond jaw coupled to said first jaw for selective pivotal travelrelative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition; and a closure member configured to apply closure motions tosaid second jaw as said closure member is axially movable in a distaldirection from a starting position corresponding to said fully openposition of said second jaw to an ending position corresponding to saidfully closed position of said second jaw, said closure member configuredto move distally from said starting position an initial predeterminedaxial closure distance before applying said closure motion to saidsecond jaw.
 2. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein said initialpredetermined axial closure distance is 0.020 inches.
 3. The surgicalinstrument of claim 1, wherein said closure member is configured todistally move through a final predetermined axial closure distance aftersaid second jaw has been moved to said fully closed position.
 4. Thesurgical instrument of claim 3, wherein said final predetermined axialclosure distance is 0.040 inches.
 5. The surgical instrument of claim 3,wherein said closure member is configured to apply said closure motionsto said second jaw as said closure member moves distally through anintermediate predetermined axial closure distance after said closuremember traveled said initial predetermined axial closure distance andprior to traveling said final predetermined axial closure distance. 6.The surgical instrument of claim 5, wherein said intermediatepredetermined axial closure distance is 0.200 inches.
 7. The surgicalinstrument of claim 3, wherein said closure member comprises a closurecamming surface configured to cammingly engage a jaw camming surface onsaid second jaw to apply said closure motions thereto.
 8. The surgicalinstrument of claim 3, wherein said closure member further comprisesmeans for applying opening motions to said second jaw when said closuremember axially moves in a proximal direction from said ending positionto said starting position.
 9. The surgical instrument of claim 8,wherein said means for applying opening motions comprises: a first jawopening feature on said closure member and configured to apply a firstamount of jaw opening motion to said second jaw as said closure memberis axially moved from said ending position to an intermediate axialposition between said ending position and said starting position; and asecond jaw opening feature on said closure member axially spaced fromsaid first jaw opening feature and configured to apply a second amountof jaw opening motion to said second jaw as said closure member isaxially moved from said intermediate position to said starting position.10. A surgical instrument, comprising: an elongate channel configured tooperably support a surgical staple/fastener cartridge therein; an anvilpivotally supported on said elongated channel for selective pivotaltravel relative thereto between a fully open position and a fully closedposition; and a closure member configured to apply closure motions tosaid anvil as said closure member is axially movable in a distaldirection from a starting position corresponding to said fully openposition of said anvil to an ending position corresponding to said fullyclosed position of said anvil, said closure member configured to movedistally from said starting position an initial predetermined axialclosure distance before applying said closure motion to said anvil. 11.The surgical instrument of claim 10, wherein said initial predeterminedaxial closure distance is 0.020 inches.
 12. The surgical instrument ofclaim 10, wherein said closure member is configured to distally movethrough a final predetermined axial closure distance after said anvilhas been moved to said fully closed position.
 13. The surgicalinstrument of claim 12, wherein said final predetermined axial closuredistance is 0.040 inches.
 14. The surgical instrument of claim 12,wherein said closure member is configured to apply said closure motionto said anvil as said closure member moves distally through anintermediate predetermined axial closure distance after said closuremember traveled said initial predetermined axial closure distance andprior to traveling said final predetermined axial closure distance. 15.The surgical instrument of claim 14, wherein said intermediatepredetermined axial closure distance is 0.200 inches.
 16. The surgicalinstrument of claim 12, wherein said closure member comprises a closurecamming surface configured to cammingly engage an anvil camming surfaceon an anvil mounting portion of said anvil to apply said closure motionthereto.
 17. The surgical instrument of claim 12, wherein said closuremember further comprises means for applying opening motions to saidanvil when said closure member axially moves in a proximal directionfrom said ending position to said starting position.
 18. The surgicalinstrument of claim 17, wherein said means for applying opening motionscomprises: a first jaw opening feature on said closure member andconfigured to apply a first amount of jaw opening motion to said anvilas said closure member is axially moved from said ending position to anintermediate axial position between said ending position and saidstarting position; and a second jaw opening feature on said closuremember axially spaced from said first jaw opening feature and configuredto apply a second amount of jaw opening motion to said anvil as saidclosure member is axially moved from said intermediate axial position tosaid starting position.
 19. A surgical system, comprising: a housingoperably supporting a closure system; an interchangeable surgical toolassembly comprising: an elongate shaft assembly operably and removablycouplable to said housing such that a proximal closure portion thereofis configured to receive axial closure motions from said closure system;and a surgical end effector operably coupled to said elongate shaftassembly, said surgical end effector comprising: an elongate channelcoupled to said elongate shaft assembly and configured to operablysupport a surgical fastener cartridge therein; an anvil coupled to saidelongate channel for selective pivotal travel relative thereto between afully open position and a fully closed position wherein said elongateshaft assembly comprises: an axially movable proximal closure memberconfigured to receive said axial closure motions; and a distal closuremember operably coupled to said proximal closure member and configuredto apply said axial closure motions to said anvil as said distal closuremember is axially movable in a distal direction from a starting positioncorresponding to said fully open position of said anvil to an endingposition corresponding to said fully closed position of said anvil, saiddistal closure member configured to move distally from said startingposition an initial predetermined axial closure distance before applyingsaid closure motions to said anvil.
 20. The surgical system of claim 19,wherein said distal closure member is configured to distally movethrough a final predetermined axial closure distance after said anvilhas been moved to said fully closed position.